Vital signs - Pulse Flashcards
1
Q
pulse definition
A
a pressure wave created by a heart beat that goes along the arteries
2
Q
where can you find a pulse?
A
felt when an artery passes over a bone, e.g. brachial, radial, carotid and apex
3
Q
what is the carotid pulse point used for?
A
used to assess in a suspected collapse
4
Q
what is the brachial pulse point used for?
A
during BP measurement
5
Q
Factors affecting heart rate
A
emotions, pain, infection, exercise, dehydration, labour, anaemia, haemorrhage
6
Q
Describe the procedure of taking a radial pulse
A
- place the fingertips of index and middle finger to left or right of the artery at the wrist.
- press lightly
- count it for 60 seconds
7
Q
what are we observing when we measure a pulse?
A
rate, strength, rhythm, present/absent
