Final answer:
Bradycardia is a condition where the resting heart rate is below 60 bpm, and it may require treatment if accompanied by symptoms indicating insufficient blood supply to tissues. Relative bradycardia refers to symptomatic patients with a normal HR. The underlying cause determines treatment, with pacemakers being one potential intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing conditions such as bradycardia, it is important to consider the general functioning of the patient. Bradycardia is diagnosed when the resting heart rate (HR) drops below 60 beats per minute (bpm). It may be considered clinically significant if accompanied by symptoms like weakness, fatigue, dizziness, or chest discomfort. Otherwise, if pulses, perfusion, and respirations remain adequate, it is not typically a cause for concern, especially if the HR stays above 50 bpm.
The term relative bradycardia may be used to describe a patient with a HR within the normal range but still experiencing symptoms like fatigue or dizziness, suggesting inadequate oxygenated blood supply to tissues. Treatment of bradycardia focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying cause, which could be inherent such as SA or AV node abnormalities or external like metabolic disorders or electrolyte imbalances. In some cases, a pacemaker may be necessary.
Lastly, both hyperthermia and hypothermia can influence HR, with extremes potentially leading to a cessation of heart function.