What vital sign indicates the heart rate?

• A. Temperature
• B. Breathing rate
• C. Pulse
• D. Blood pressure

Answer: (C)

The pulse is the vital sign that directly indicates the heart rate. It reflects the number of times the heart beats in a minute and can be measured at various points in the body where arteries are close to the skin, such as the wrist or neck. When assessing the pulse, EMTs and healthcare providers can not only determine the heart rate but also gain insights into the rhythm and strength of each heartbeat, which are essential for evaluating a patient's cardiovascular health.

In contrast, temperature reflects the body's heat level, breathing rate indicates how many breaths a patient takes in a minute, and blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. While all these vital signs are important for a comprehensive assessment of a patient's condition, the pulse specifically focuses on the heart's activity and is critical for understanding cardiac function.