NCLEX RN Simulated Exam Test Bank Related

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Over a patient's lifespan, how does the pulse rate change?

  • A. starts out fast and decreases as the patient ages.
  • B. starts out slower and increases as the patient ages.
  • C. varies from slow to fast throughout the lifespan.
  • D. stays consistent from birth to death.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is that the pulse rate starts out fast and decreases as the patient ages. In infants, the normal pulse rate is around 140 beats per minute, which then falls to an average of 80 beats per minute in adults. As individuals age, their pulse rate tends to decrease due to changes in cardiovascular function. Choice B is incorrect as the pulse rate typically decreases with age, rather than increases. Choice C is incorrect as there is a general trend of decreasing pulse rate as individuals age, rather than a continuous variation. Choice D is incorrect as the pulse rate does change over a patient's lifespan, starting fast in infants and decreasing as they age.