Assessing Apical-Radial Pulse

Category: Vital Signs
Status: Stub — content coming soon

Purpose

Describe pulse deficit and when this two-nurse technique is indicated.

Equipment

• Stethoscope
• Watch with second hand (or timer)
• Two nurses

Procedure

Pulse Deficit

• Pulse deficit = Apical rate − Radial rate
• Any deficit > 0 is abnormal and should be reported

Clinical Significance

Document conditions associated with pulse deficit (e.g., atrial fibrillation).

Notes

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