Which statement correctly describes conduction pathways between AVN and ventricles?

• A. They enable rapid activation of the ventricles
• B. They slow ventricular activation
• C. They are absent in healthy hearts
• D. They only function during disease

Answer: (A)

Conduction from the AV node to the ventricles uses the His–Purkinje system, a fast, specialized pathway (bundle of His, bundle branches, Purkinje fibers) that rapidly spreads the impulse to the ventricular myocardium. This rapid propagation ensures coordinated, quick activation of both ventricles after the atria have delivered their signal. The AV node itself provides a deliberate delay to allow ventricular filling, but once the impulse reaches the ventricles, the fast pathways take over to produce rapid activation. Therefore, this description correctly captures the role of these pathways. They are present in healthy hearts, they do not slow activation, and they do not only function during disease.