Which condition indicates a loss of normal heart rhythm?

Arrhythmia refers to the condition where there is an irregularity in the heartbeat, meaning the heart does not beat in a normal rhythm. This can manifest in various ways, such as a heartbeat that is too fast, too slow, or erratic. It encompasses a broader range of heart rhythm abnormalities and can be classified into different types, including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, among others.

In contrast, other options describe more specific conditions. Bradycardia indicates a slower than normal heart rate, while asystole refers to a complete cessation of electrical activity in the heart, leading to no heartbeat at all. Ventricular tachycardia is a specific type of arrhythmia that involves a fast heartbeat originating from the ventricles. While they all relate to heart rhythm, arrhythmia captures the overarching concept of an abnormal rhythm, making it the correct choice for this question.