Which of the following characteristics would you expect in a junctional rhythm?

In a junctional rhythm, the electrical impulse originates from the junction between the atria and ventricles, typically around the AV node. This leads to a few key characteristics on an electrocardiogram (ECG). One of the most notable features is the presence of normal QRS complexes due to the typical conduction through the ventricles. However, P waves can be absent, inverted, or occur after the QRS complex, depending on the exact origin of the impulse within the junctional area.

The scenario described in the correct answer reflects this understanding. Absent or negative P waves indicate that the atria are either depolarizing simultaneously with the ventricles (which may not be detectable) or that atrial depolarization is retrograde due to the junctional impulse originating below the atrial level. The normal QRS complexes demonstrate that the ventricular depolarization is still following the standard pathway through the bundle of His and Purkinje fibers.

Characteristics such as wide QRS complexes and tall P waves, a shortened QT interval with elevated QRS amplitude, or variable heart rates with varying QRS morphology would not typically be seen in a junctional rhythm. Each of these descriptions suggests other types of dysrhythmias or conduction abnormalities. Thus