How is the heart rhythm described when Atrial Fibrillation occurs?

• A. Regular and consistent
• B. Irregular and chaotic
• C. Regular with slight variations
• D. Constant and rhythmic

Answer: (B)

When Atrial Fibrillation occurs, the heart rhythm is described as irregular and chaotic. This is due to the disorganized electrical activity in the atria, which results in ineffective contractions and an unpredictable heartbeat. In Atrial Fibrillation, the electrical signals that trigger heartbeats arise from multiple areas in the atria rather than a single, regular electrical impulse from the sinoatrial (SA) node. This chaotic electrical activity leads to an irregularly timed ventricular response, producing a rhythm that does not follow any predictable or consistent pattern. The result is a heartbeat that can vary significantly in rhythm and rate, leading to the characteristic presentation of Atrial Fibrillation on an ECG with an absence of distinct P waves and an irregularly irregular QRS complex.