What does the term "sinus bradycardia" mean?

The term "sinus bradycardia" refers to a slow heart rate that originates from the sinus node, which is the natural pacemaker of the heart. In a healthy adult, a normal resting heart rate is typically between 60 to 100 beats per minute. When the heart rate falls below 60 beats per minute, it is classified as bradycardia. This condition occurs when the electrical impulses initiated by the sinus node decrease in frequency, leading to a slower heart rhythm. In many cases, sinus bradycardia can be a normal physiological response, especially in individuals who are physically fit, such as athletes, but it can also indicate an underlying medical condition if symptoms are present. Understanding this term is crucial for monitor technicians, as they need to recognize heart rhythms and identify abnormalities effectively.