Radial and Apical pulseVersion en ligne To help the students to know more about the steps of counting the radial and apical pulses par Nursing Empowerment Program 1 Palpate the patient's radial pulse by using the thumb. Yes No 2 Count the radial pulse using a watch in the hand for 30 sec then multiply Yes No 3 By the end of counting the pulse, note the pulse: Rate, rhythm, and volume Yes No 4 The apical pulse locate in the sixth intercostal space toward the mid clavicular line. Yes No 5 Before auscultate the apical pulse, warm the diaphragm of the stethoscope first by holding it against the palm of your hands for 5-10 seconds Yes No 6 To auscultate the apical pulse: Insert the earpieces in your ears with the tips bent forward Yes No 7 To auscultate the apical pulse: place the stethoscope over the apex of the patient's heart and count for 5 minute Yes No 8 Pulse deficit: is found when the HR from apical pulse is faster than the HR from the radial pulse. Yes No 9 To calculate the pulse deficit = Radial pulse rate – Apical pulse rate. Yes No 10 Normally there is no pulse deficit, but If pulse deficit is more than 10 b/min, this needs doctor consultation. Yes No