Which best describes a single chamber system in cardiac pacing?

A single chamber system in cardiac pacing is best described as having one lead placed in either the right atrium or the right ventricle. This configuration is designed to treat specific bradyarrhythmias while maintaining the basic pacing needs of the heart.

When a lead is placed in the right atrium, it primarily paces the atrial contractions, which is beneficial in certain types of arrhythmias. Conversely, placing the lead in the right ventricle enables it to pace ventricular contractions, which is essential for maintaining an adequate heart rate and blood flow in patients with ventricular pacing needs.

Single chamber systems are simpler in design, offering advantages such as less complexity in the lead placement process and potentially easier management in terms of device programming and patient follow-up. This option is essential for understanding the distinctions between different pacing configurations, as dual chamber systems involve both atrial and ventricular leads, while biventricular systems require multiple leads for advanced therapies such as cardiac resynchronization therapy.