bradycardia
Pronunciation: brad-ee-CAR-dee-ah
Heart rate below normal range for age in newborns, typically less than 100 beats per minute.
Full Definition
In neonatal medicine, bradycardia refers to a heart rate below the normal range for the infant's age and condition. For newborns, this is generally defined as less than 100 beats per minute, though normal ranges vary by gestational age and postnatal age. Bradycardia episodes are common in preterm infants and may be associated with apnea, feeding, or other stressors. Persistent or severe bradycardia requires immediate medical intervention as it can indicate serious underlying conditions or lead to inadequate tissue perfusion.
Usage
Usage note: Often occurs together with apnea in preterm infants; distinguish from tachycardia (fast heart rate).
In Context
- "The preterm infant experienced episodes of bradycardia during feeding that resolved with gentle stimulation." — nursing documentation
- "Monitor for bradycardia and apnea episodes in infants receiving opioid analgesia." — clinical protocol