Heart rate can be measured by palpating the carotid artery.Applying too much pressure to the carotid artery could impact the measurement of heart rate in which of the following ways.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Applying excessive pressure to the carotid artery can activate the baroreceptor reflex, which causes a reflexive decrease in heart rate. This reflex is designed to help maintain blood pressure within a narrow range by slowing the heart rate when blood pressure rises too high. Therefore, too much pressure on the carotid artery could decrease the measured heart rate. Applying excessive pressure on the carotid artery is not likely to increase heart rate or impact venous return, so options A and C are incorrect. Option D is not correct as B is the best choice.

Heart Rate Can Be Measured by Palpating the Carotid Artery