Question

What some factors that influence a patient’s pulse rate? Make a list of these factors and provide a brief description of each. Then identify one strategy if applicable to reduce false pulse rates.

Answer 1

Some factors that influence a patient’s pulse rate are:

- excercise: short-term excercise increase the pulse, while long-term decreases the pulse rate

- temperature: fever and heat increase the pulse rate, while hypthermia decreases the pulse rate

- emotions: Acute pain and anxiety increase sympathetic stimulation, Unrelieved severe pain increases parasympathetic stimulation, relaxation decreases pulse rate

- Hemorrhage increases pulse rate: Loss of blood increases parasympathetic stimulation