Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CRAT Practice Questions and Study Guide

A regular rhythm at a rate of 158 beats per minute with a narrow QRS complex is indicative of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This condition originates above the ventricles, typically in the atria or the atrioventricular (AV) node, hence the classification as "supraventricular." The narrow QRS complex suggests that the electrical impulses are being conducted normally through the ventricles, with no significant delay, which commonly occurs in SVT. This is contrasted with rhythms originating in the ventricles, such as ventricular tachycardia, which would typically present with wide QRS complexes.

The regularity of the rhythm at this elevated rate further supports the diagnosis of SVT—this is characterized by a rapid and consistent heartbeat. Other potential conditions listed, such as paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (which is a type of SVT but often refers to episodes that start and stop suddenly) or atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response (which presents irregularly rather than regularly), do not fit the description as clearly as supraventricular tachycardia does in this context. Therefore, the identification of a regular rhythm and narrow QRS complex directly aligns with defining features of