Checking of pulse is the act of measuring the number of times the heart beats, rhythm and strength of the beat within a minute. During the procedure an artery is located under the skin directly on a bone by firmly pressing on the selected artery to feel the beat. The unit of measurement is beats per minutes (bpm). The normal ranges for adults and children are stated below:
a. Adults: 60 – 100, average 80bpm
b. Children:
· 1 – 12 months: 80 – 140, average of 120bpm
· 2 – 6 years: 75 – 130, average of 100bpm
· 7 – 12 years: 75 – 110, average of 95bpm
Aims
· Determine the baseline values of a patient for future comparisons
· Detect changes and abnormalities in the condition of the patient
· Evaluate patient response to interventions
· Provide data to identify patient problems
Requirements
· Pen
· Observation chart
· Breast watch or appropriate timer
Steps
1. Establish rapport with the patient (Refer to steps)
2. Explain procedure to patient (Refer to steps)
3. Assist patient into an appropriate resting position
4. Place first three fingers of one hand on the anterior aspect of patient forearm just above the base of the thumb
5. Feel the pulsations of the radial artery
6. With the aid of an appropriate timer count for a full minute
7. Concentrate on the beats of the pulse when counting rather than the timer
8. Note the rhythm, volume and tension of the pulse
9. Record the pulse on the observation chart
10. Perform hand hygiene
11. Assist patient to return to a desirable position
12. Discuss findings with patient and report any abnormalities detected to appropriate officer
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