NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareEasy
A medical assistant is measuring a patient's pulse. The MA counts 18 beats in 15 seconds. What is the patient's pulse rate in beats per minute (bpm)?
- A60 bpm
- B72 bpm
- C84 bpm
- D96 bpm
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 72 bpm
To calculate the pulse rate in beats per minute, multiply the number of beats counted in 15 seconds by 4 (since there are four 15-second intervals in a minute). So, 18 beats * 4 = 72 bpm.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This would be 15 beats in 15 seconds (15*4=60).
- C. This would be 21 beats in 15 seconds (21*4=84).
- D. This would be 24 beats in 15 seconds (24*4=96).
Pulse Rate Calculation
Pulse rate is the number of heartbeats per minute, measured by palpating an artery.
- Count beats for 15, 30, or 60 seconds.
- If 15 sec, multiply by 4; if 30 sec, multiply by 2.
- Normal adult range: 60-100 bpm.
Memory trick: Seconds Shorter, Multiplier Stronger