Accuracy of Subject-Palpated Carotid Pulse After Exercise

In brief: To determine the accuracy of pulse rates palpated at the carotid artery immediately after exercise, 42 volunteers received standardized written instructions on this method of palpation. As a comparison group, 42 additional subjects received instructions for radial artery palpation. After five minutes of practice the subjects performed the Canadian Home Fitness Test. Immediately afterward data were obtained from palpation and simultaneous ECG recordings. There was no significant difference between the rates counted by the subjects and the ECG recordings. Statistical tests showed that the carotid and radial methods were similar, and there was no evidence of carotid sinus slowing. The heart rate eight seconds after the exercise was 6 beats min−1 or 3.6% lower than the mean heart rate during exercise. The authors concluded that individuals can accurately and safely determine their postexercise heart rate by carotid artery palpation if certain criteria are met.