Medical Abbreviation PR: Pulse Rate Explained

PR stands for pulse rate (or simply pulse), the number of heartbeats per minute (bpm).

Normal Ranges (Adults)

• Resting: 60–100 bpm.
• Athletes: 40–60 bpm (bradycardia is normal).
• Children: higher, age-dependent (newborn 100-160, adolescent 60-100).

Clinical Significance

• Tachycardia (PR >100): fever, pain, anemia, hyperthyroidism, heart failure, shock, medications.
• Bradycardia (PR <60): athletic conditioning, beta-blockers, hypothyroidism, heart block, increased ICP.
• Irregular rhythm: atrial fibrillation, ectopic beats, heart block.

Measurement

Palpate radial artery (or carotid, brachial, femoral) for 30 seconds ×2, or 60 seconds if irregular. Document rate, rhythm, and quality.