CNA Skill: Measuring/Recording Radial Pulse

Question 1

What is the care plan for measuring/recording radial pulse?

Answer 1

Take the patients radial pulse measured at the wrist for one full minute and record your readings

Question 2

What are the supplies needed for measuring/recording radial pulse?

Answer 2

I. Watch/clock
II. Pen
III. Documentation sheet

Question 3

What is the opening procedure steps before performing any skill?

Answer 3

I. Knock and introduce yourself 
II. Identify patient 
III. Describe the skill you will be performing 
IV. Obtain permission 
V. Close the privacy curtain
VI. Wash your hands 
VII. Gather supplies

Question 4

What is the 1st thing you must do before measuring/recording radial pulse?

Answer 4

Introduce yourself, identify patient and inform them that you will be taking their vital signs

Question 5

Inform the patient you will go ______ _______ ________ and gather your _________

Answer 5

Wash your hands; supplies

Question 6

Inform the patient that this kill will take about ___________ and ask them to ________ _______ during this time

Answer 6

Minute; remain quiet

Question 7

What fingers do you use and what fingers do you not use when recording/measuring radial pulse?

Answer 7

USE: pointer and middle finger

DO NOT USE: thumb

Question 8

T/F When recording/measuring radial pulse you must count the thumps that you feel under your fingers for 2 minutes

Answer 8

False; for only one full minute

Question 9

What must you do when you finish measuring/recording the patient’s radial pulse?

Answer 9

Ask the patient if you can get them anything else while you are there and let them know if they need anything they may use call light