Measuring Radial Pulse
Key Points
- Radial pulse is counted at the wrist using fingertip palpation for a full 60 seconds.
- A complete 60-second count improves accuracy, especially when rhythm is irregular.
- Prompt documentation and nurse notification of abnormal findings are required.
Equipment
- Watch or clock with second hand
- Hand hygiene supplies
Procedure Steps
- Perform routine pre-procedure actions: knock, identify resident, explain procedure, provide privacy, and perform hand hygiene.
- Position resident comfortably with forearm supported.
- Place fingertips (not thumb) on radial artery at thumb side of wrist.
- Palpate pulse quality and begin timing.
- Count beats for 60 seconds.
- Ensure resident comfort after measurement and restore environment safety (bed low/locked and call light in reach as applicable).
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document pulse rate and report abnormal findings to nurse.
Common Errors
- Using thumb to palpate pulse → may count examiner’s own pulse.
- Counting for less than 60 seconds in irregular rhythm → inaccurate rate estimate.
- Excessive pressure over artery → can dampen pulse and cause false low count.
- Delayed reporting of abnormal rate/rhythm → delayed clinical intervention.
Related
- measuring-respirations - Pulse and respirations are often assessed together in vital-sign workflow.
- documenting-and-reporting-data - Accurate time-stamped charting supports trend interpretation and escalation.