What factors can cause variations in a patient’s pulse?

Variations in a patient's pulse can be significantly influenced by underlying health conditions. These conditions can affect the heart's function, leading to changes in the pulse rate, rhythm, and strength. For example, a patient with heart disease may exhibit a weaker or irregular pulse, while conditions such as fever or anemia can lead to a faster pulse as the body works harder to provide adequate oxygen and nutrients to tissues.

While medications, age, and gender can also impact a patient's pulse, the most direct and immediate influence comes from health conditions affecting cardiovascular or systemic physiology. Therefore, understanding and recognizing how these underlying health factors affect pulse characteristics is crucial for accurate assessment and appropriate medical response.