How to read a heart rate monitor

Viewing methods for heart rate monitors (typically referring to electrocardiogram [ECG] monitors) primarily include the following key points. The ECG monitor screen is generally divided into three sections: the top information bar, the left waveform display area, and the right parameter display area. - **Information Bar**: Displays patient information such as bed number, patient name, and abnormal results. - **Waveform Display Area**: Shows waveform tracings of multiple vital signs, including heart rate, oxygen saturation (SpO₂), blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature. - **Heart Rate**: Displayed as green numerals or the abbreviation “ECG”; normal range: 60–100 beats per minute (bpm). - **Blood Pressure**: Displayed as red numerals, showing both systolic and diastolic pressures; normal systolic range: 90–140 mmHg; normal diastolic range: 60–90 mmHg. - **Oxygen Saturation (SpO₂)**: Displayed as blue numerals or the abbreviation “SpO₂”; normal range: 95%–100%. - **Respiratory Rate**: Displayed as yellow numerals or the abbreviation “RESP”; normal range: 12–20 breaths per minute. - **Temperature**: Displayed as “TEMP”; normal range: 36–37°C.