Which of the following best describes ventricular tachycardia?

Ventricular tachycardia is best characterized by a wide, blunt, rapid wave form on an electrocardiogram (ECG) that lacks discernible P waves and T waves. This is due to the fact that, during this arrhythmia, the electrical impulses originate from the ventricles rather than the atria, which is why the P waves—associated with atrial depolarization—are absent.

The rapid rate typically exceeds 100 beats per minute and can vary widely, but it is the abnormal morphology of the QRS complexes (wide and often blunt) that is a defining characteristic of ventricular tachycardia. Recognizing the lack of P and T waves is crucial for accurately diagnosing and differentiating it from other arrhythmias.

For further context, while a rapid heartbeat exceeding 200 bpm may be seen in other conditions, this description does not capture the specific morphology of the QRS complexes. The presence of discernible P waves indicates atrial activity, which does not occur in ventricular tachycardia, and a normal ventricular rhythm at a rate of 60-100 bpm cannot relate to ventricular tachycardia, which is inherently defined by a faster rate and distinct morphology.