How to Measure a Pulse

1. How to Measure a Pulse Vital Signs in the Ambulatory Setting:An Evidence-Based Approach Cecelia L. Crawford RN, MSN

2. Pulse Measurement – An Overview • Equipment for accurate pulse measurement • Watch or clock with second hand or digital second counter • Stethoscope for apical pulse (optional) • Pen or pencil • Flowsheet, chart, or medical record • Clean hands and fingers! • Waited 5 minutes if patient was active • Patient in a comfortable & relaxed position • Enough time to count the pulse

3. Pulse – It’s All About The Numbers! Terminal Digit Preference • Some people may show a preference for certain numbers in pulse readings* • Zeros, even numbers, odd numbers • Be aware you might “like” some numbers more than others! (*Roubsanthisuk, W., Wongsurin, U., Saravich, S., & Buranakitjaroen, P., 2007)

4. Pulse Procedure • Wash hands & put on gloves, if appropriate • Provide privacy • Assist patient to a comfortable & relaxed position

5. Pulse Procedure - Radial 4. Do NOT use your thumb • Thumbs have a pulse, which can be mistaken for a patient’s pulse 5. Place fingertips of first 2 or middle 3 fingers over the radial pulse area • Thumb side of patient’s forearm at the wrist 6. Lightly press your fingertips on the pulse area

6. Pulse Procedure - Brachial 4. Used for infants and small children 5. Place fingertips of first 2 or middle 3 fingers over the brachial pulse area • Inside of the elbow 6. Lightly press your fingertips on the pulse area

7. Pulse Procedure 7. Begin to count rate when pulse is felt regularly 8. Count for 60 sec 9. Count for 30 sec and multiply X2 • Shorter time counts = inaccurate data

8. Pulse Procedure • If pulse irregular or skipping, count for 60 sec

9. Pulse Procedure – Apical (Optional) Listen to the heart with a stethoscope to count the pulse if: • Pulse is difficult to feel or count • Pulse is very fast or very slow

10. Pulse Procedure – Machine Taken • Automated BP machines can take pulse readings • Accurate with strong, normal pulses • Inaccurate with: • Very fast or very slow pulses • Weak, skipping or irregular pulses • Arm movement or agitation • When in doubt – count it yourself!

11. Pulse Procedure 10. Inform the RN or MD if pulse is: • Difficult to feel or count • Very fast or very slow • Irregular or skipping • An Apical pulse

12. Normal Pulse Rates Mosby’s Critical Care Nursing Reference, 2002; Perry & Potter (2006)

13. Pulse Procedure 11. Discuss pulse rate with patient or parent 12. Remove gloves & wash hands

14. Pulse Procedure 13. Document the Results • Flowsheet, clinic record, or clinic chart 14. Communicate the Results • RN • MD

15. Pulse Measurement in the Clinic • YOU can make the difference: • Welcoming presence • Decrease any anxieties & fears • Reassure patients & family • Accurate vital signs