Assessing a patient's pulse is a fundamental skill in healthcare, but certain situations require special attention:
Irregular Pulse:
• Count for a full minute to accurately assess the rate and rhythm when the pulse is irregular.
• Document any irregularities, such as skipped beats or varying pulse strength.
Disappearing Pulse:
• If the pulse is palpable but intermittently disappears, avoid applying excessive pressure, which can suppress the pulse.
• Gently palpate the area and mark the pulse location with a non-permanent marker if needed for repeated assessments.
Absent Pulse:
• An absent pulse might indicate a critical problem that warrants immediate action.
• Use an ultrasound Doppler device to confirm the presence or absence of a pulse. Doppler devices are more sensitive and can detect pulses that are not palpable manually.
• Notify the physician immediately if a pulse is absent or if there are significant irregularities.
Age-Related Pulse Variations:
• The average pulse rates vary with age. For instance, infants and young children typically have higher pulse rates than adults.
Apical Pulse in Children Younger Than Two:
• For children under two years of age, assess the apical pulse. In young children, peripheral arteries are more superficial and can easily compress, making peripheral pulses less reliable.
Apical Pulse in Cardiac Patients:
• Patients with congenital or acquired cardiac issues should undergo apical pulse assessment. This method provides a more precise evaluation of cardiac function for these patients.
Assessing Apical Pulse for Irregular Peripheral Pulses:
• An apical pulse assessment is also indicated in irregular, feeble, or highly rapid peripheral pulses. It helps to determine the heart rate and rhythm accurately.
