What is the typical heart rate for supraventricular tachycardia in children?

• A. 180 bpm
• B. 120 bpm
• C. 90 bpm
• D. 240 bpm

Answer: (A)

Supraventricular tachycardia in children presents as a rapid, regular rhythm that originates above the ventricles. Because kids have higher baseline heart rates than adults, a tachycardic rate around 180 beats per minute is a common presentation for pediatric SVT. This rate is high enough to be clearly abnormal for most pediatric ages yet sits within the range you’ll frequently see in SVT cases, with chances it can climb higher (around 240 bpm in younger infants) but often is encountered near 180 in many scenarios. Recognize that this pattern—very fast, regular rhythm with a narrow QRS—points toward SVT rather than a benign fever-related tachycardia or a ventricular rhythm. In practical terms, if a child is hemodynamically stable with a sustained, regular rate near this level, you’d pursue standard pediatric SVT management: attempt vagal maneuvers if feasible, consider adenosine if IV/IO access is available, and be ready for synchronized cardioversion if the child shows signs of instability.