Final answer:
The term used to describe a tachycardia characterized by abrupt onset, abrupt cessation, and a QRS of normal duration is paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (c).
Step-by-step explanation:
The term used to describe a tachycardia characterized by abrupt onset, abrupt cessation, and a QRS of normal duration is paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (c).
Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia usually occurs suddenly and often stops just as abruptly. The QRS complex, which represents the electrical activation of the ventricles, is usually of normal duration, indicating that the electrical signal is following the normal conduction pathway.
Atrial fibrillation (d) is characterized by an abnormal electrical pattern prior to the QRS complex and an increased frequency between the QRS complexes. Sinus tachycardia (a) is a normal response to increased physical activity, emotions, or certain medical conditions. Atrial flutter (b) typically presents with characteristic sawtooth-shaped flutter waves.