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7.9: Skills Checklist- Pulse

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    Pulse

    1. Gather Supplies: Watch or clock with a second hand
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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:

     

    1. Chippewa Valley Technical College. (2022, December 3). Obtaining a Pulse. [Video]. YouTube. Video licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://youtu.be/Q82Fn8pLDtg ↵

    This page titled 7.9: Skills Checklist- Pulse is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Myra Sandquist Reuter via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform; a detailed edit history is available upon request.