What is the definition of tachycardia?

Tachycardia is defined as having a heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute. This condition indicates that the heart is beating faster than what is considered normal and can be a response to various factors such as stress, fever, or medical conditions. Understanding this is essential for assessing a patient's cardiovascular health, as an elevated heart rate can impact the body's ability to effectively circulate blood and oxygen. The normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute, so any rate above 100 is classified as tachycardia. Recognizing this definition is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers when monitoring vital signs and responding to patient needs.