How to Measure a Child's Pulse: Tips and Tricks
Measuring a child's pulse is an important aspect of monitoring their health. Understanding the basic characteristics of the pulse and the correct way to measure it will help parents assess the condition of the baby's cardiovascular system and seek help in a timely manner if necessary. Let's figure out how to do it.
Three characteristics of the pulse:
- Heart rate (HR): This indicator indicates the speed of the heart rhythm. You can measure heart rate by placing your fingers on the vein in the neck, wrist, or elbow bend.
- Rhythm: This parameter describes the regularity of the pulse. It is considered rhythmic when the beats follow each other at regular intervals.
- Tension: The tension of the pulse is determined by the strength of its sensation when pressing on the artery. Strong tension may indicate high blood pressure, and weak tension may indicate low blood pressure.
Approximate pulse values in children:
- Up to 1 month: 140 beats per minute
- From 1 to 12 months: 130 beats per minute
- 2 years: 125 beats per minute
- 4 years: 115 beats per minute
- 4-6 years: 105 beats per minute
- 6-8 years: 98 beats per minute
- 8-10 years: 88 beats per minute
- 10-12 years: 80 beats per minute
- 12-15 years: 75 beats per minute
How to measure a child's pulse:
Preparation: If the child has been actively playing or crying, give them 5-10 minutes to restore their normal heart rhythm. Provide a quiet place for measurement.
Measurement locations: Choose one of the following locations to measure the pulse: on the neck (carotid artery), on the wrist (radial artery), or on the elbow bend (brachial artery).
Measurement technique: On the neck or wrist, place your fingers on the artery and press gently. On the elbow bend, place the child's arm so that the inner bend is accessible for measurement. Usually, the little finger is used for children.
Remember that all pulse values given are averages. For more accurate information about your child's health, consult your pediatrician. They will be able to give recommendations and detailed consultations in accordance with the individual characteristics of your baby.
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/stress-test/doctors-departments/pdc-20385235