Med Sur Lab
Star2011@
AssessingApicalRadialPulse-checklist.pdf
Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Student __________________________________________________ Date ________________________
Instructor ________________________________________________ Date ________________________
PERFORMANCE CHECKLIST FOR ASSESSING APICAL-RADIAL PULSE
S U NP Comments
1. Verified the health care provider’s orders.
2. Gathered the necessary equipment and supplies.
3. Performed hand hygiene.
4. Introduced self to the patient and family.
5. Provided for the patient’s privacy.
6. Identified the patient using two patient identifiers.
7. Checked for factors that suggest a possible pulse deficit.
Obtained the help of a second health care provider.
8. Explained to the patient that two people will be assessing
heart function at the same time. Helped the patient into
a supine or sitting position, and exposed the sternum
and left side of the chest.
9. Located the apical and radial pulse sites. Had the second
health care provider palpate the radial pulse while they
auscultated the apical pulse.
10. Counted the pulse rate simultaneously for a full 60
seconds.
11. Stopped counting and compared findings.
12. Subtracted the radial rate from the apical rate.
13. Helped the patient into a comfortable position.
Discussed findings with the patient as needed.
14. Performed hand hygiene.
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Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
15. Assessed for other signs and symptoms of decreased
cardiac output.
16. Reported the presence of a pulse deficit and any related
symptoms to the nurse in charge or to the health care
provider.
17. Helped the patient into a comfortable position, and
placed toiletries and personal items within reach.
18. Placed the call light within easy reach, and made sure
the patient knows how to use it to summon assistance.
19. Raised the appropriate number of side rails and lowered
the bed to the lowest position.
20. Disposed of used supplies and equipment. Left the
patient’s room tidy.
21. Removed and disposed of gloves. Performed hand
hygiene.
22. Documented and reported the patient’s response and
expected or unexpected outcomes.
