19-11-2012, 11:25 AM
HEART RATE MEASUREMENT
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HEART RATE
Heart rate is the number of heartbeats per unit of time, typically expressed as beats per minute (bpm).
Heart rate can vary as the body's need to absorb oxygen and excrete carbon dioxide changes, such as during exercise or sleep.
The measurement of heart rate is used by medical professionals to assist in the diagnosis and tracking of medical conditions. It is also used by individuals, such as athletes, who are interested in monitoring their heart rate to gain maximum efficiency from their training. The R wave to R wave interval (RR interval) is the inverse of the heart rate.
HEART RATE MEASUREMENT
Heart rate is measured by finding the pulse of the body. This pulse rate can be measured at any point on the body where the artery's pulsation is transmitted to the surface by pressuring it with the index and middle fingers; often it is compressed against an underlying structure like bone.
The thumb should not be used for measuring another person's heart rate, as its strong pulse may interfere with correct perception of the target pulse.
HEART RATE MEASURING TECHNIQUES—Taking Your Pulse Manually
The two most common locations used to take a pulse are at the radial artery in the wrist and the carotid artery in the neck.
It is best to practice locating and counting your pulse when you are at rest and again during physical activity.
MEASURING THE RADIAL PULSE
Place the tips of the index and second fingers of one hand on the inside wrist of the other hand. Position the fingers just below the base of the thumb to take the radial pulse at the wrist.
MEASURING YOUR RESTING HEART RATE
A resting pulse is the lowestyour heart rate would go during the day. You canget your best reading when you first wake up in themorning, before any activity. Relax your body, and follow the steps below for measuring your pulse.
The following are steps to take when measuring your pulse:
• Step One: Apply light to moderate pressure with thefingers until the blood pulsing beneath the fingers is felt. If no pulse is felt, move the fingers aroundslightly, up or down, until a pulse is felt. Do notapply excessive pressure. This may compress the artery and distortthe measurement. Once the pulse is felt, move to step two.
• Step Two: Using a watch or clock with a second hand, count thenumber of beats felt in 30 seconds, then multiply that number bytwo to compute a heart rate, expressed in BPM (beats per minute)