Function: The CARDIOPULMONARY (heart and lungs) system functions to support life of the human body and adapts to various challenges to maintain homeostasis by sustaining optimal ranges (physiological processes) during rest and activity. Hillegass (2001) stated “The many functions of the respiratory system include gas exchange, fluid exchange, maintenance of a relatively low volume blood reservoir, filtration, and metabolism, and they necessitate an intimate and exquisite interaction of these various components.”

Checking Heart Rate: To check heart rate there are 2 places to assess:
a) on the side of the neck called the carotid artery
b) on the wrist called the radial artery (just below the crease of the wrist on the thumb side)

Carotid pulse: the carotid artery runs on the side of the neck and supplies blood to the head and neck. The carotid pulse can felt by using the index and middle fingertips. The individual should gently press these 2 fingers on one side of the neck beside the Adam’s apple.

Radial pulse: The radial pulse is located on the inside the wrist. The radial artery runs below the base of the thumb. The individual should bend their elbow with the arm at their side and the palm of the hand
facing up. The hand can be resting on the lap while using the first and second fingertips to gently feel for the radial pulse.

Count the radial pulse: do this for 1 full minute (60 seconds). This can also be done for 15 seconds and then multiplying this number by 4. (It is advised not use the thumb when checking the pulse. This is
because of the vasculature in the thumb which also has a pulse. Rather,use the index and middle fingers, as indicated above.)

Disorders:

Cardiopulmonary disorders vary in presentation, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Other comorbidities can also exacerbate cardiopulmonary conditions. Some symptoms that may present include shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. In other conditions, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), the person may have no symptoms. The only way to assess if an individual is responding in a normative manner physiologically at rest and during exercise is by assessment of heart rate,
blood pressure, respirations, oxygen saturation, and other measures over time (Hillegass, 2001). Clinicians may use the Borg scale to help objectify the rate of perceived exertion with activity, from very, very light (level 7) to very, very hard (level 19). Other common cardiopulmonary conditions include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, chronic bronchitis, atrial fibrillation (A-fib), and congestive heart failure (CHF). These conditions necessitate appropriate care under the guidance of licensed medical professionals for assessment and intervention.

Calculating Target Heart Rate Range:

For exercise at moderate intensity, target heart rate (THR) is cal- culated at 50% to 85% of maximum heart rate (Max HR). An estimate of Target HR is calculated by subtracting the individual’s age from 220. For example, if a person is 65 years old:
a) Maximum heart rate: 220 – 65 = 155 bpm
b) Intensity level of 50%: 155 x 0.50 = 78 bpm
c) Intensity level of 85%: 155 x 0.85 = 132 bpm
d) Therefore, the Target HR range is 78 to 132 bpm

Formula:
Step 1. 220 – __________=___________
(Age) (Maximum HR)
Step 2. 50% level =__________ X 0.50 =___________
(Max HR) (Lower Target HR)

Step 3. 85% level =___________ X 0.85 =___________
(Max HR) (Higher THR)

Target HR range is:________________ to________________bpm
or
________________to_______________ 15 seconds (refer to the Heart Rate table
above)

(In the back of Matt’s book see Table A for reference to American Heart Association’s Maximum and Target Heart Rates based on
age; This formula is also on Table B in the book)

For guidelines related to exercise training click here to get a copy of Matt’s book.