Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

Which of the following factors can influence heart rate?

1. Age

2. Time of day

3. Caffeine intake

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

All of the choices listed can influence heart rate, making the selection of "all of the above" the most comprehensive and accurate answer. Age is a significant factor because as a person ages, their resting heart rate may decrease due to changes in the cardiovascular system and increased heart efficiency. Typically, younger individuals have a higher resting heart rate than older adults. Time of day can also play a role; heart rate can fluctuate throughout the day due to circadian rhythms. For instance, heart rates may be lower during sleep and gradually increase upon waking. Caffeine intake affects heart rate by stimulating the central nervous system. Caffeine can lead to an increase in heart rate as it promotes the release of adrenaline, which may cause temporary increases in heart rate and blood pressure. Understanding that these factors interplay shows the complexity of heart rate regulation and underscores the importance of considering multiple influences when assessing a patient's heart rate.