The pulse represents the pressure wave traveling through the arteries each time the heart contracts. Monitoring a child’s pulse rate is a simple, non-invasive way for caregivers to assess circulatory function. A child’s heart rate changes rapidly based on activity, emotional state, or health status, making it a valuable indicator for non-emergency monitoring. Knowing how to accurately locate and measure this rate provides important information about a child’s physiological state.
Primary Pulse Check Locations for Children
The most accessible and reliable location for taking a pulse depends on the child’s age and general condition. For toddlers and older children, the radial pulse is typically the easiest to find and count. This pulse is located on the thumb side of the wrist, where two fingers, such as the index and middle finger, should be placed gently but firmly against the artery. It is important to avoid using the thumb for this measurement, as it has its own detectable pulse that could lead to an inaccurate reading.
For infants under one year old, the brachial pulse is the preferred location for a pulse check. This artery is found on the inner side of the upper arm, situated between the elbow and the shoulder. To locate it, gently press two fingers on the inside of the arm until a beat is felt.
The carotid pulse, located on the side of the neck next to the windpipe, is generally reserved for emergency situations, especially if the child is unresponsive. If checking this site, use only a very light touch on one side of the neck, as pressing too hard or checking both sides simultaneously can momentarily slow blood flow to the brain. Central pulses like the carotid and brachial are often stronger and more reliable when blood circulation is compromised.
Step-by-Step Measurement Technique
Measuring a pulse requires a tool with a second hand or a digital timer to ensure accuracy. Before starting the count, the child should be at rest for at least five minutes, especially if they have been active, crying, or excited. To begin, place your index and middle fingers on the chosen pulse site and apply just enough pressure to feel the distinct throbbing sensation.
The most accurate method for determining the heart rate is to count the number of beats felt for a full 60 seconds. A more common approach is to count the beats for 30 seconds and then multiply that number by two to calculate the beats per minute. If the pulse seems irregular, very slow, or very fast, counting for the full 60 seconds provides a more reliable assessment of the rhythm.
An irregular beat, or arrhythmia, may feel like a skipping or extra beat during the counting process. While many irregularities in children are harmless, a consistently erratic pulse should be noted when reporting the measurement. The measured rate is a snapshot of the heart’s activity and should be compared against the expected range for the child’s age.
Normal Heart Rates by Age
A child’s normal resting heart rate varies significantly and decreases as they grow older. These rates are based on the child being calm, awake, and at rest, and they will be higher during activity, crying, or fever. The expected range for a newborn (birth to one month old) is approximately 70 to 190 beats per minute.
Infants (one to 11 months old) generally have a resting rate between 80 and 160 beats per minute. Toddlers (one to two years of age) typically range from 80 to 130 beats per minute. Preschool-age children (three to four years old) usually fall within 80 to 120 beats per minute.
The resting heart rate continues to slow for school-age children (five to six years old), whose expected range is 75 to 115 beats per minute. Children aged seven to nine years have a range of 70 to 110 beats per minute. For those 10 years and older, the rate is comparable to an adult’s, typically 60 to 100 beats per minute.
When to Seek Emergency Help
A pulse measurement that is extremely high or low is cause for concern, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms. Immediate medical attention is necessary if an abnormal pulse is observed alongside difficulty breathing, such as seeing the muscles pulling in between the ribs. Changes in skin color, like paleness, a gray tone, or blue lips, are signs indicating poor circulation.
Other signs requiring an emergency response include extreme lethargy, difficulty waking the child, or loss of consciousness. If the child reports chest pain, extreme dizziness, or fainting, especially during physical activity, contact emergency services immediately.