March 1, 2024
Pulse, also known at the heart rate, is a reading of the beats per minute the heart makes. This sometimes can be seen as “bpm”. As the heart pushes blood through the arteries, the arteries expand and contract with the flow of the blood.
The pulse is measured using a Pulse Oximeter placed on the patients finger. Make sure hands have been washed. No long nails or nail polish.
Place on index or middle finger, palm facing up.
Correct Pulse Posture: The patient sits quietly not talking or moving, support relaxed straight arm, supported back and feet.
60-100bpm (beats per minute) is considered normal.
This is called tachycardia. This may be asymptomatic, but even when no health concerns are presented by the patient, a fast heart rate still requires follow-up from an RN.
The patient can experience shaking, jitters, fainting, light headedness, chest pain, shortness of breath, etc. All of these require follow-up by an RN right away.
This is called bradycardia. This may be asymptomatic, but even when no health concerns are presented by the patient, a slow heart rate still requires follow-up from an RN.
The patient can experience fainting, light headedness, confusion, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc. All of these require follow-up by an RN right away.
