What device is used to stimulate the heart and regulate its contractions?

• A. Defibrillator
• B. Pacemaker
• C. ECG Monitor
• D. Stethoscope

Answer: (B)

A pacemaker is a medical device designed to stimulate the heart and regulate its contractions. It achieves this by sending electrical impulses to the heart muscle, helping to maintain a normal rhythm in individuals whose hearts beat too slowly or irregularly. It's especially beneficial for patients with conditions such as bradycardia, where the heart does not pump enough blood due to a slow heart rate.

In contrast, a defibrillator is primarily used for delivering a high-energy shock to the heart in cases of life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation. An ECG monitor provides a visual representation of the heart's electrical activity, allowing healthcare professionals to diagnose various conditions but does not actively regulate heart contractions. A stethoscope is an instrument used to listen to the sounds made by the heart, lungs, and other organs, providing crucial information about their function but also lacking any capability to stimulate heart contractions.