Pulse Health Article

Definition

The pulse is the number of heartbeats per minute.

Alternative Names

Heart rate; Heart beat

How the test is performed

The pulse is measured at the:

• Back of the knees
• Groin
• Neck
• Temple
• Top or inner side of the foot
• Wrist

In these areas, an artery passes close to the skin.

To measure the pulse at the wrist, place the index and middle finger over the underside of the opposite wrist, below the base of the thumb. Press firmly with flat fingers until you feel the pulse.

To measure the pulse on the neck, place the index and middle finger just to the side of the Adam's apple, in the soft, hollow area. Press firmly until you locate the pulse.

Once you find the pulse, count the beats for 1 full minute, or for 30 seconds and multiply by 2. This will give the beats per minute.

How to prepare for the test

To determine the resting heart rate, you must have been resting for at least 10 minutes. Take the exercise heart rate while you are exercising.

How the test will feel

There is a slight pressure from the fingers.

Why the test is performed

Measuring the pulse can give very important information about your health. Any change from normal heart rate can indicate a medical condition. Fast pulse may signal an infection or dehydration. In emergency situations, the pulse rate can help determine if the patient's heart is pumping.

The pulse measurement has other uses as well. During exercise or immediately after exercise, the pulse rate can give information about your fitness level and health.

Normal Values

For resting heart rate:

• Newborn infants: 100 - 160 beats per minute
• Children 1 to 10 years: 70 - 120 beats per minute
• Children over 10 and adults (including seniors): 60 - 100 beats per minute
• Well-trained athletes: 40 - 60 beats per minute