Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP) Practice Test 2025 - Free CCRP Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term 'infarct' refers specifically to a section of dead tissue that results from the loss of blood supply due to blockage in the blood vessels. In the context of cardiac health, an infarct often occurs during a heart attack, when the coronary arteries are obstructed, leading to ischemia and subsequently necrosis of the heart muscle. This dead tissue cannot participate in the contractions of the heart, which can severely impact the heart's overall function. Understanding this definition is crucial in recognizing the seriousness of conditions like myocardial infarction, where timely intervention is vital to prevent extensive damage and preserve heart function.

The other options do not align with the definition of 'infarct.' Normal heart function describes a heart operating effectively without any complications; an irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia, refers to abnormal electrical activity in the heart; and fluid accumulation does not signify dead tissue but rather may indicate conditions like heart failure or inflammation.