There are several synonyms that can be used to describe a junctional escape beat. These include nodal escape beat, atrioventricular junctional rhythm, nodal rhythm, or simply an escape beat. These types of beats occur when the normal electrical impulses that control heart rhythm from the sinoatrial (SA) node are disrupted, and the secondary control center, the atrioventricular (AV) node, takes over. This can result in slower or irregular heartbeats, and can be a sign of underlying heart conditions. Identifying and treating junctional escape beats can be important in maintaining a healthy heart rhythm.