Med Sur Lab
Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Mosby: Mosby's Nursing Video Skills Student _________________________________________ Date ___________________ Instructor _______________________________________ Date ___________________
PERFORMANCE CHECKLIST FOR ASSESSING APICAL PULSE
S U NP Comments
1. Verified health care provider’s orders.
2. Gathered necessary equipment and supplies.
3. Performed hand hygiene.
4. Provided patient’s privacy.
5. Introduced self to patient and family.
6. Identified patient using two identifiers.
7. Assessed for factors that can affect apical pulse
rate and rhythm.
8. Used gloves if necessary.
9. Helped patient into appropriate position.
10. Located PMI properly.
11. Slid fingers down to ICS, then to the fifth
intercostals space, then over to the left
midclavicular line.
12. Felt PMI as a light tap reflecting apex of the
heart.
13. Located PMI if not where expected.
14. Warmed diaphragm of stethoscope in palm of
Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
hand, cleaned with alcohol, allowed to dry.
15. Placed diaphragm over PMI, auscultated for
normal S1 and S2 sounds.
16. Looked at watch once sounds were heard
with regularity, took pulse properly.
17. Replaced patient’s gown and bed linen
helped patient to comfortable position,
discussed findings as appropriate.
18. Cleaned earpieces and diaphragm with
alcohol after each use, discarded swab
appropriately.
19. Placed personal items within reach.
20. Placed call light within reach, ensured patient
knew how to use it.
21. Raised top side rails and lowered bed to
ensure patient safety.
22. Disposed of used supplies and equipment, left
patient’s room tidy.
23. Removed and disposed of gloves if worn,
performed hand hygiene.
24. Compared patient’s apical pulse rate and
rhythm with baseline and acceptable range.
25. Documented and reported patient’s response
Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
and outcomes.