What does BPM refer to in relation to heart function?

BPM stands for "beats per minute," which is a standard measurement used to quantify the number of times the heart beats in a minute. This metric is crucial for assessing heart function and overall cardiovascular health. A normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute, and variations can be indicative of various health conditions, levels of fitness, and responses to stress or activity. Monitoring BPM helps healthcare professionals evaluate heart performance, detect abnormalities, and make informed decisions about patient care.

In the context of heart function, understanding BPM is fundamental for assessing how efficiently the heart is pumping blood and for monitoring changes that may occur in response to exercise, medical conditions, or time of day.