i TAKING THE PULSE ) Peripheral Pulse - is a pulse located away Apical Pulse - is a central pulse, at the maximal impulse (PMI). Usually Purposes: . To establish a baseline data - To identify whether the pulse rate is within normal range 1 2. 3. To determine whether the ropri i pulse rhythm is i i | eae ee hm is regular and volume is ay ate : equality of corresponding peripheral pulses . 6. . To evaluate client's risk for pulse alterations . To evaluate blood perfusion to extremities Special considerat 1. In taking a pulse it is important to note the following: a. frequency/rate of the beats . thythm/regularity of the heart beat volume b. c. d. pressure of the blood on the vessel walls e. condition of the arterial walls 2. Any unusual pulse must be counted for a full minute 3. Never use the thumb for counting pulse because its own pulsation may be confused with that of the client. The pulse is felt strongly over specific areas/sites: a. Temporal - at the superior (above) ad lateral to (away) from the midline of the eye b. Apical - at the apex of the heart. Adult: on the left side of the chest, about 8cm (3in.) to the left sternum (breastbone) at the first intercostal space (area between ribs). c. Brachial-at the inner aspect of ‘the biceps muscle of the arm or medially in the antecubital space. d. Radial - on the thumb side of the inner aspect of the wrist Femoral - along the inguinal ligament teal - behind the knee Pe tibial - on the medial surface of the ankle Dorsalis pedis - Carotid over the bones of the foot rr ame