How to Check the Radial Pulse

Introduction

• Presented by Sarah from RegisteredNurseRN.com.
• Demonstration on checking the radial pulse.

Preparation

• Perform hand hygiene.
• Explain the procedure to the patient.

Checking the Radial Pulse

• Key Assessments:
  • Rate:
    • Count the number of beats.
  • Strength:
    • Grade on a scale of 0 to 3+.
    • 0: Absent pulse
    • 1+: Weak pulse
    • 2+: Normal pulse
    • 3+: Bounding pulse
  • Rhythm:
    • Determine if pulse is regular or irregular.

Locating the Radial Artery

• Commonly used site for adults.
• Found below the thumb in the wrist area along the radial bone.

Procedure

• Positioning:
  • Patient can sit in bed or lie down.
  • Support and extend the patient’s arm.
• Finger Placement:
  • Use the first three fingers (not the thumb).
  • Lightly touch to feel the pulse; avoid pressing hard.

Counting the Pulse

• Regular Pulse:
  • Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2.
• Irregular Pulse:
  • Count for a full minute.

Example

• Demonstrated heart rate: 82 beats per minute.
• Rhythm: Regular
• Strength: 2+
• Normal adult heart rate: 60 to 100 beats per minute.

Conclusion

• Video conclusion on checking radial pulse.
• Encourage subscription to the channel for more content.