7.9 Skills Checklist: Pulse
Pulse
- Gather Supplies: Watch or clock with a second hand
- Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:
- Knock on the client’s door.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
- Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
- Provide for privacy.
- Explain the procedure to the client.
- Procedure Steps:
- Locate the radial pulse by placing the tips of your fingers on the side of the resident’s wrist.
- Count the pulse for 60 seconds.
- Post-Procedure Steps:
- Check on resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
- Ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
- Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
- Open the door and privacy curtain.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document pulse and report abnormal findings to the nurse.
View a YouTube video[1] of an instructor demonstration of obtaining a pulse:
- Chippewa Valley Technical College. (2022, December 3). Obtaining a Pulse. [Video]. YouTube. Video licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://youtu.be/Q82Fn8pLDtg ↵