Which vital sign is typically measured in beats per minute?

The vital sign that is typically measured in beats per minute is the pulse rate. The pulse rate reflects the number of times the heart beats in one minute and is an essential indicator of cardiovascular health. It is usually measured by palpating the arteries at various sites on the body, such as the wrist or neck, to determine how many beats occur within a specific timeframe.

Understanding the typical measurements associated with other vital signs can help clarify why pulse rate is the correct choice. Body temperature is recorded in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius, blood pressure is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), and respiration rate is counted as breaths per minute. Each of these vital signs serves its unique purpose in assessing a person's overall health, but only the pulse rate is quantified in beats per minute, making it distinct in this context.