How do you determine the number of pulses or beats per minute?

To determine the number of pulses or beats per minute, counting the number of pulses over a shorter period, such as 15 seconds, and then multiplying that number by 4 is a common method. This calculation allows for a quick assessment of the heart rate while minimizing the time needed for the measurement.

By counting for just 15 seconds, you streamline the process, making it more efficient without sacrificing accuracy. Multiplying the count by 4 scales it up to a full minute, which is the standard unit for measuring heart rates. This approach balances both speed and accuracy, particularly in clinical or emergency settings where timely assessments are crucial.

The method of counting heartbeats for a full minute is certainly accurate, but it can be less practical in situations where time is of the essence. The other time intervals, such as 30 seconds or 10 seconds, would also not provide as efficient a computation as the 15-second approach multiplied by 4.