What term describes a slow heart rate, typically defined as below 60 beats per minute?

The term that describes a slow heart rate, specifically defined as below 60 beats per minute, is bradycardia. This condition indicates that the heart is beating more slowly than normal, which can occur due to various reasons such as increased vagal tone, certain medications, or heart conditions. Understanding bradycardia is important in health science as it may require monitoring and, in some scenarios, medical intervention if it leads to insufficient blood flow and symptoms like dizziness or fatigue.

The other terms present distinct definitions within the context of heart rates. Tachycardia refers to a rapid heart rate, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute, which can indicate stress, fever, or an underlying health issue. Hypercardia is not a standard term used in clinical practice to describe a heart rate condition. Instead, arrhythmia is a broader term encompassing various irregular heartbeats, which can include both slow and fast heart rates. Therefore, bradycardia specifically highlights the aspect of a decreased heart rate, making it the correct term for this situation.