A normal pulse ranges from 60 to 90 beats per minute. Babies can have pulse rates up to 120 beats per minute; young children’s pulses range from 80 to 160. A rapid pulse can be a sign of shock or severe strain on the heart such as an asthma attack or electrocution. If the beats are very faint or weak, an injured person might be in shock, his blood flow might be restricted, he might be in a hypothermic condition (from the cold), or he might be suffering from several other conditions. The main thing to be aware of when it comes to a faint heartbeat is to keep an ear out and keep an eye on the person’s breathing. If the heartbeat is slow and is combined with ragged, almost nonexistent breathing, an emergency situation is definitely in progress. You might have to perform CPR (if you are trained and certified) or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation until help arrives. Practice taking a pulse on yourself or a family member so you’ll be familiar with the process in case of an emergency.
Listening to the Heartbeat
Listening to an injured person’s heartbeat is just as important as taking his or her pulse. Obviously, a heartbeat means the person is alive—even if the pulse is so weak that you can’t feel it at any location. Here’s how to listen to a heartbeat. A normal adult heart beats between 60 and 90 beats per minute. Children and babies can have ranges higher. When a heartbeat is too fast, it can mean the victim is suffering from agitation or panic, shock, or fever. Treat each of those conditions as needed. For children: Put your ear slightly to the left of the left nipple.
