Which condition is characterized by an inherent delay in the conduction through the AV node?

First-degree heart block is characterized by a delay in conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. In this condition, every impulse from the atria is conducted to the ventricles, but there is a prolonged PR interval, which indicates that the electrical signal is taking longer than normal to travel from the atria to the ventricles. This delay in conduction through the AV node can be caused by various factors, including increased vagal tone or structural changes in the cardiac conduction system.

The prolonged PR interval is a key feature of first-degree heart block, distinguishing it from other rhythm disorders where conduction is either normal or more severely disrupted. In sinus tachycardia, the heart rate is elevated but conduction through the AV node remains normal. Ventricular tachycardia presents with rapid electrical impulses originating from the ventricles, not the AV node, and normal sinus rhythm indicates a typical, healthy heart rhythm with no conduction delays.