Which term is defined as the heart ceasing to generate electrical impulses?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Brugada syndrome
• C. Pacemaker failure
• D. Asystole

Answer: (D)

Asystole means the heart stops generating electrical impulses, so there is no electrical activity and no cardiac output. This is why it’s the best term for the described situation: the ECG would show a flat line, indicating a complete absence of rhythm. Tachycardia is defined by a rapid heart rate caused by ongoing electrical activity. Brugada syndrome is a genetic channelopathy that increases the risk of dangerous rhythms, not a cessation of electrical activity. Pacemaker failure refers to a malfunction of an implanted device that fails to deliver impulses, which can lead to bradycardia or asystole but is not the definition of the heart ceasing to generate impulses itself.