How to Check Pulse Rate

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By rosswhite1
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Common sites are the brachial and radial pulses.

Your pulse rate says something about your circulation and blood volume. A bounding pulse is usually good, while a weak pulse normally isn't. Here's how you can find yours easily in your own home.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Make sure you are in a somewhat rested state. Taking your pulse right after vigorous exercise will shoot your pulse through the roof and won't be an accurate reading.
Step 2

Palpate, or feel around, for your radial pulse. This is the easiest location to take a pulse and should be easy to feel for. Hold your index and middle fingers together on the pulse site and hold.
Step 3

Get some type of watch or clock nearby. You will need this to count to either 30 seconds or a minute. Count to 30 seconds if your pulse has a regular rhythm, 60 seconds if it has an irregular rhythm.
Step 4

If you counted for 30 seconds, multiply your number by 2. If not, your 60 second measurement is your pulse rate, or heart rate. 60-100 is normal for a healthy adult. If you find that your pulse rate is out of this range, you might want to seek medical attention asap.