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The correct term for a rhythm that indicates an early heartbeat is a premature atrial contraction (PAC). This condition occurs when an ectopic pacemaker in the atria generates an impulse before the SA node dictates that heartbeat, leading to an early contraction. In a PAC, the heart's rhythm is interrupted by an early beat, which often feels like a skipped heartbeat or a fluttering sensation. This phenomenon can occur in healthy individuals without significant underlying heart disease and is typically benign.

Atrial fibrillation, on the other hand, is a condition characterized by irregular and often rapid heart rates due to chaotic electrical signals in the atria, resulting in an irregular heartbeat rather than early contractions. Normal sinus rhythm refers to the typical, regular heart rhythm generated by the SA node, with no early beats present. Ventricular tachycardia is a more serious condition defined by three or more consecutive heartbeats originating from the ventricles, occurring at a rapid rate and is unrelated to PACs. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurately interpreting different heart rhythms.