B3.2.4 Measurement of pulse rates Notes

Traditional Methods of Measuring Pulse

1. Every heartbeat sends a surge of blood through your arteries, creating a pressure wave that travels along the walls of these vessels.
2. When this wave reaches areas where arteries are close to the surface of your skin, such as your wrist or neck, you can feel it as a pulse.
3. Each pulse corresponds to one heartbeat, so counting your pulse is a direct way to determine your heart rate.

1. Radial Pulse (Wrist)

1. Location: The radial artery, located on the thumb side of your wrist.
2. Steps:
   1. Place two or three fingertips (not your thumb) lightly on the underside of your wrist, just below the base of your thumb.
   2. Press gently until you feel the rhythmic beats of your pulse.
   3. Count the number of beats for 30 seconds and multiply by two to calculate beats per minute (bpm). For greater accuracy, count for a full minute.

2. Carotid Pulse (Neck)

1. Location: The carotid arteries, found on either side of your neck near your windpipe.
2. Steps:
   1. Place two fingertips on the side of your neck, just below your jawline and to the side of your windpipe.
   2. Press lightly until you feel the pulse.
   3. Count the beats as described above.

Digital Methods of Measuring Pulse

1. Advancements in technology have made pulse measurement more convenient and precise.
2. Devices like pulse oximeters and fitness trackers offer automated ways to monitor your heart rate.

Pulse Oximeters

1. Pulse oximeters are small, clip-like devices that attach to your fingertip.
2. They use red and infrared light to measure changes in blood volume with each heartbeat, allowing them to calculate your pulse rate.

1. In addition to heart rate, pulse oximeters also measure blood oxygen saturation, providing a more comprehensive view of your cardiovascular health.

Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches

1. Wearable devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches use optical sensors to measure your pulse through your wrist.
2. These tools often provide continuous heart rate monitoring and can store data for long-term analysis.
3. Fitness trackers are especially useful for monitoring heart rate during activities like exercise or sleep, where manual pulse measurement may be challenging.

Comparing Traditional And Digital Pulse Measurement Techniques