A 5-year-old presents with decreased consciousness and a wide complex, rapid ECG. What heart rate characteristic indicates ventricular tachycardia?

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is characterized by a heart rate that is typically greater than 100 beats per minute, and often within the range of 120 to 200 beats per minute. In children, rates above 180 beats per minute may even indicate VT depending on the clinical context. The presence of a wide QRS complex along with the rapid heart rate in this patient presents further evidence supporting the diagnosis of ventricular tachycardia.

When assessing ventricular tachycardia, it's important to note the distinction between rates. Heart rates below 100 beats per minute or within the range of 60 to 120 beats per minute indicate normal sinus rhythm or other types of bradycardia or tachycardia that do not meet the criteria for VT. A heart rate above 200 beats per minute would suggest a more severe or different tachyarrhythmia scenario, which may not be the classical presentation of VT commonly seen in children. Therefore, the specific range of 120 to 200 beats per minute is integral to identifying ventricular tachycardia effectively in this clinical situation.