Which component of ECG analysis focuses on the rhythm of heartbeats?

The component of ECG analysis that focuses on the rhythm of heartbeats is rhythm itself. In the context of an electrocardiogram (ECG), rhythm refers to the regularity of heartbeats over a period of time. It is a crucial aspect as it helps identify whether the heart is beating at a consistent rate and pattern, which is vital for diagnosing various cardiac conditions.

Rhythm analysis involves assessing the intervals between successive heartbeats, which can indicate if there are any irregularities such as arrhythmias. The rhythm can be categorized into normal, irregular, or varying patterns, which are central to understanding the heart's electrical activity.

Other aspects, such as amplitude, frequency, and duration, play important roles in ECG interpretation but do not specifically focus on the rhythmic pattern of heart activity. Amplitude refers to the height of the waves on the ECG, frequency relates to how often the heart beats over time, and duration pertains to the length of specific waves or segments on the ECG tracing. While these components contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of the ECG, it is the rhythm that directly addresses the nature of the heartbeat's timing and consistency.