How to Calculate Heart Rate on Ecg

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ECG Heart Rate Calculator

This calculator helps you determine your heart rate from an electrocardiogram (ECG) strip. The heart rate is typically calculated by measuring the time between consecutive R-waves (the tallest peak in the QRS complex) and converting that time into beats per minute (BPM).

Your calculated heart rate will appear here.

How to Calculate Heart Rate from an ECG

Calculating heart rate from an ECG is a fundamental skill for healthcare professionals. There are several common methods, and the accuracy often depends on the regularity of the heart rhythm.

Methods for Calculating Heart Rate:

  1. The 6-Second Method (for irregular rhythms): Count the number of QRS complexes (the sharp, tall peaks) within a 6-second strip and multiply by 10. This is a good estimate for irregular rhythms.
  2. The 1500 Method (for regular rhythms): Count the number of small boxes between two consecutive R-waves and divide 1500 by that number. This is the most accurate method for regular rhythms. (1500 / number of small boxes).
  3. The 300 Method (for regular rhythms): Count the number of large boxes between two consecutive R-waves and divide 300 by that number. This is a quicker, less precise method for regular rhythms. (300 / number of large boxes).
  4. The R-R Interval Method (used in this calculator): This method directly uses the measured R-R interval. If you measure the R-R interval in seconds, you can calculate the heart rate using the formula: Heart Rate (BPM) = 60 / R-R Interval (seconds). This is essentially the principle behind the 1500 and 300 methods, as 1500 small boxes/minute and 300 large boxes/minute are standard ECG paper speeds.

Using the Calculator:

  • R-R Interval (seconds): Measure the time in seconds between two consecutive R-waves on your ECG strip.
  • ECG Paper Speed (mm/sec): This is usually printed on the ECG paper. The standard is 25 mm/sec.
  • Large Box Duration (seconds): On a standard ECG, each large box is 0.2 seconds wide (5 large boxes = 1 second).
  • Small Box Duration (seconds): On a standard ECG, each small box is 0.04 seconds wide (25 small boxes = 1 second).

By inputting the R-R interval and understanding the ECG paper speed and box durations, this calculator provides an accurate heart rate calculation.

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