What does a resting heart rate of 120 indicate in terms of potential red flags?

A resting heart rate of 120 beats per minute is considered elevated and can indicate the presence of underlying health issues, making it a potential red flag. In geriatric patients, a heart rate this high may suggest various conditions, such as dehydration, anemia, fever, hyperthyroidism, or cardiac issues. It is essential to evaluate this resting heart rate in the context of the patient's overall health and any accompanying symptoms, as it signals that the body might be under stress or experiencing a medical concern that requires further investigation.

Normal resting heart rates generally range from 60 to 100 beats per minute for adults, so a rate of 120 significantly exceeds this range. Therefore, this situation should prompt further clinical assessment to ensure comprehensive care and patient safety. Identifying this as a red flag allows healthcare providers to take appropriate actions, such as monitoring the patient more closely, conducting further evaluations, and possibly initiating treatment to address the underlying cause of the elevated heart rate.