What does the term 'tachycardia' refer to?

Tachycardia specifically refers to an elevated heart rate, which is typically defined as a resting heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can be a physiological response to a variety of factors, including physical activity, stress, anxiety, or underlying medical conditions.

Understanding tachycardia is vital for paramedics and healthcare professionals, as it can indicate an underlying issue that requires attention, such as heart disease or an overactive thyroid. Recognizing the significance of elevated heart rates can assist in the prompt assessment and treatment of patients presenting with symptoms of cardiac distress.

The other options refer to different physiological measurements and conditions: low blood pressure is termed hypotension, irregular breathing patterns can indicate respiratory problems or distress, and increased body temperature is referred to as fever or hyperthermia. Each of these terms highlights a unique aspect of clinical assessment, but they are distinct from the concept of tachycardia.