Which medical device delivers electrical impulses via electrodes contacting the heart muscle to regulate the heartbeat?

• A. Pacemaker
• B. Defibrillator
• C. Stethoscope
• D. Angioplasty balloon

Answer: (A)

A pacemaker delivers electrical impulses through electrodes that contact the heart muscle to regulate the heartbeat. It monitors the heart’s rhythm and provides pacing when the rate is too slow or conduction is impaired, helping keep a steady heart rate. Implanted pacemakers use leads in the atrium and/or ventricle connected to a pulse generator under the skin. This differs from a defibrillator, which delivers a high-energy shock to terminate dangerous fast rhythms rather than provide ongoing pacing. A stethoscope is used to listen to heart sounds, and an angioplasty balloon widens narrowed arteries. Hence, the device described is a pacemaker.