Final answer:
The 'bradycardia with a pulse' algorithm is to be used when an adult's heart rate falls below 60 bpm, indicating bradycardia. However, symptoms of concern usually don't show unless the heart rate drops below 50 bpm.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of heart conditions, Bradycardia is a term that refers to a heart rate that is lower than normal. For an adult, a normal resting heart rate (HR) is typically within the range of 60-100 beats per minute (bpm). When the HR drops below this range, it is considered bradycardia. The "bradycardia with a pulse" algorithm should be considered for use when the heart rate is <60 bpm. However, it is important to note that most patients do not exhibit symptoms of bradycardia as long as the HR remains above 50 bpm. If a patient is asymptomatic, bradycardia is not usually considered clinically significant unless accompanied by symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort, palpitations, or respiratory distress. These symptoms may indicate that the heart is not providing sufficient oxygenated blood to the tissues.