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

When the pacemaker does not send electrical impulses to the myocardium, this condition is referred to as malfunctioning or failure to pace. In this scenario, the pacemaker is unable to generate the necessary electrical signals that stimulate the heart to contract, resulting in a lack of heartbeats or an irregular heart rhythm.

Failure to pace can lead to significant clinical implications, as the heart relies on these electrical impulses to maintain a rhythmic and effective pumping action. When pacing fails, the heart may go into bradycardia (a slow heart rate) or may even stop beating altogether, which is critical and requires immediate medical attention.

In contrast, the other terms relate to slightly different issues. Malsensing refers to the pacemaker's inability to properly detect the heart's native electrical activity. Loss of capture indicates that the pacemaker is delivering impulses, but the myocardium does not respond appropriately to those impulses. Over-sensing occurs when the pacemaker incorrectly interprets signals from the heart or other sources, possibly leading to inappropriate pacing.

Understanding these differences is essential for recognizing complications related to pacemaker function, as proper diagnosis and intervention are crucial for patient safety and care.