Which physiological changes may occur when an officer's heart rate exceeds 175 bpm?

When an officer's heart rate exceeds 175 beats per minute, physiological changes take place that can significantly impact performance. One noteworthy change is the loss of depth perception. Higher heart rates are generally associated with the body's stress response, which is part of the fight-or-flight mechanism triggered by adrenaline.

As heart rates rise, the body prioritizes blood flow to essential organs and muscles, resulting in decreased blood flow to areas such as the eyes. This can compromise the visual processing required for depth perception, making it harder for an officer to accurately judge distances and act accordingly in critical situations.

This degradation in sensory perception can be particularly dangerous in high-pressure environments where precise movements and spatial awareness are crucial. Understanding these physiological responses is essential for officers to manage their stress and perform effectively under pressure.