What Do PR and RR Mean on a Patient Monitor? Understanding Vital Signs and Alarms with Narigmed

Patient monitors are essential in both human and veterinary healthcare. Among the most critical parameters shown on a Narigmed monitor are PR (Pulse Rate) and RR (Respiratory Rate). These numbers offer valuable insights into a patient’s health status—and when they fall outside normal limits, alarms help prompt timely action.

What Is PR?

PR (Pulse Rate) measures the number of heartbeats per minute (bpm). It reflects how fast the heart is pumping blood throughout the body. A typical resting PR for a healthy adult is between 60–100 bpm. However, infants and animals may have naturally higher rates.

When PR is too low (bradycardia) or too high (tachycardia), it may signal issues like hypoxia, arrhythmias, fever, or stress. For example, Narigmed monitors support a PR range of 30–250 bpm, suitable for both adults and newborns.

What Is RR?

RR (Respiratory Rate) is the number of breaths a person or animal takes per minute. It gives insight into lung function and oxygen exchange. A normal adult RR is 12–20 breaths per minute, while newborns may breathe 30–60 times per minute—or even up to 70.

Narigmed monitors detect RR through chest movement or impedance methods, with a supported range of 4–70 rpm.

The Connection Between PR and RR

PR and RR are closely linked. When the body experiences stress, infection, or oxygen deficiency, both rates may rise as a compensatory response. Together, they give a fuller picture of the patient’s cardiovascular and respiratory function.

• A high PR with stable RR may suggest dehydration or anxiety.

• Increases in both PR and RR could point to systemic infections, fever, or respiratory distress.

Alarm Thresholds and What They Mean

Narigmed monitors are equipped with configurable alarms. When PR or RR exceed preset safe ranges, the monitor triggers visual and sound alerts. For example:

• PR alarm may trigger if values drop below 50 bpm or exceed 120 bpm.

• RR alarm may sound if values fall under 10 or go above 24 in adults.

In neonatal or veterinary use, these thresholds are adapted based on species or patient age.

How to Respond to PR/RR Alarms

1. Do not ignore alarms – Silence the sound if necessary, but always check the patient.

2. Assess the patient – Look for signs of breathing difficulty, low oxygen, or abnormal heart rate.

3. Check the sensors – Poor electrode contact or movement may cause false alarms.

4. Verify manually – Count breaths and check pulse manually if readings seem off.

5. Look at the full picture – Combine RR and PR with SpO₂, blood pressure, and temperature.

6. Take action – For example:

   • High PR? Check for fever or pain.

   • Low RR? Ensure airway is clear; stimulate if needed.

   • Fast RR? Could mean respiratory infection, stress, or metabolic imbalance.

Why PR and RR Monitoring Matters

Changes in PR and RR are often early signs of clinical deterioration. Continuous monitoring allows healthcare professionals to detect problems early—before oxygen levels drop or other symptoms appear.

Narigmed monitors not only provide real-time data but also store historical trends, helping clinicians track progress or identify subtle warning signs over time.

Conclusion
Understanding PR and RR is key to making timely, informed decisions in patient care. Narigmed’s monitoring systems make these vital signs easy to read, respond to, and manage—whether in hospitals, clinics, or veterinary settings. With smart alarms and accurate tracking, our monitors help professionals act fast—and save lives.