BAY AREA COLLEGE OF NURSING Nursing Assistant Program Module 10: Vital Signs

EQUIPMENT: watch with second hand pen and paper BEGINNING STEPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Wash hands. Knock and pause before entering the residents room. Introduce self. Identify resident. Explain procedure. Gather equipment, if applicable. Provide for privacy. Apply gloves, if necessary.

MANUAL SKILL: Pulse - Radial

SKILL STEPS: 1. 2. 3. Locate the residents radial pulse by placing middle three fingers (do not use thumb) on palm side of residents wrist on thumb side, next to the bone. Count the beats for one full minute, note rhythm and strength of beat. Record the pulse rate on a piece of paper.

ENDING STEPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Clean and return equipment and supplies, if applicable. Remove gloves, if wearing. Position resident comfortably. Place call light within reach. Lower bed to safe position for the resident. Leave room neat.
_________________________________________________ Do Not Reproduce. BACN Property/2010

BAY AREA COLLEGE OF NURSING Nursing Assistant Program Module 10: Vital Signs
7. 8. 9. Wash hands. Document. Report abnormal findings to licensed nurse.

MANUAL SKILL: Pulse - Radial

_________________________________________________ Do Not Reproduce. BACN Property/2010