How to Check for a Pulse

Pulse is one of the first things checked in an unresponsive person. Lack of pulse may not necessarily mean that the person is dead; sometimes the pulse may be feeble and not easily felt. However, if correct technique is used, we might be able to feel it without much difficulty.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Analog or digital clock with second display

1. Use your right index and middle finger to check the pulse on the left arm of the subject.

2. Press the radial artery that you are trying to feel firmly with your index finger. The idea is to partially occlude the artery which will increase the volume of the pulse just proximal to your index finger which is underlying the tip of your middle finger.

3. Feel the pulsation with your middle finger by gently touching the skin while maintaining a firm pressure with your index finger.

4. As soon as you feel the pulsations, look at the clock and start counting number of pulsations. Count for at least 15 seconds and multiply the number by 4. To be more accurate, count for the whole minute.

5. Normal pulse is around 72 beats per minute at rest, however anything from 60 beats per minute to 100 beats per minute at rest is also considered normal.

6. Besides the number you should also check the rhythm or regularity of the pulse. Irregular pulse is almost always abnormal and can be due to number of heart conditions, such as Atrial fibrillation or heart block. Pulse may be increased in fever. Athletes may have a pulse as low as the 40s, however, that is considered normal.

7. Sometimes, despite all the correct techniques, you may still not be able to feel the radial pulse. In case someone has collapsed, the most appropriate area to look for the pulse is the carotid artery, just behind Adam's apple in the neck. Other arteries that may also be used are the bracheal artery (in front of the elbow) and the dorsalis pedis (proximal to the first web of the foot).

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your hands are warm. Cold hands can be uncomfortable to the patient.
• Do not squeeze the artery hard. This can jeopardize the blood circulation to the hand.

Resources

• AskMedPal

[bushbash]

on 12/15/2007 vow!!! like that

[Ceile]

on 12/7/2007 What a very informative (and lifesaving) article! Thanks!