How To Take Apical Pulse. A clock or wristwatch with seconds is also needed. Use a watch with a second hand and count your pulse for 60 seconds. A stethoscope is used to measure the apical pulse. To locate the apical pulsation anatomical landmarks are used.
Place your index and middle fingers on the inside of your wrist below your thumb. Measuring the apical pulse apical pulse measurements usually take place while a person is either sitting or lying down. Pulse can be measured by several different methods including the radial pulse the pulse taken on your wrist and apical pulse taken near your heart with a stethoscope. Rationale allows access to client s chest for proper placement of stethoscope. A stethoscope may be easier for this purpose. Cleanse earpiece and diaphragm of stethoscope with an alcohol swab.
The apical pulse is located on the chest near the heart.
Measuring the apical pulse apical pulse measurements usually take place while a person is either sitting or lying down. The most reliable method of measuring pulse is by listening to the apical pulse. Place your index and middle fingers on the inside of your wrist below your thumb. Also write down anything you notice about your pulse such as that it is weak strong or missing beats. Nursing tips when taking an apical pulse if taking an apical pulse have the client breathe normally through the nose. Breathing through the nose decreases breath sounds and makes the heart sounds easier to hear.