What is the rate of apical pulse?

Table of Contents

What is the normal apical pulse rate? A normal pulse rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). 2 However, depending on activity level, a lower or higher pulse may be normal for an individual. For example, it is not uncommon for young, healthy athletes to have a lower resting heart rate.

Is apical pulse most accurate?

Doctors believe that taking the apical pulse (the pulse site over the apex of the heart), rather than the radial pulse, is the most accurate, non-invasive way of assessing cardiac health. The apical pulse provides information on the heart’s count, rhythm, strength, and quality.

Why is an apical pulse ordered on a patient?

Typically, apical pulse rate is taken for a full minute to ensure accuracy; this is particularly important in infants and children due to the possible presence of sinus arrhythmia.

How do I find my apical rate?

Apical pulse measurements usually take place while a person is either sitting or lying down. The doctor will place a stethoscope on the left side of the breastbone, over the apex of the heart. They can also feel the apical pulse at the point of maximal impulse (PMI).

Where is the best place to check your pulse?

The best places to take your pulse are at your wrist, inside the elbow, at the side of your neck or on the top of your foot, according to The American Heart Association. You can also take your pulse at your groin, on your temple or behind your knees. The pulse felt on the neck is called the carotid pulse.

What site of pulse is most commonly taken?

The radial artery is most commonly used to check the pulse. Several fingers are placed on the artery close to the wrist joint. More than one fingertip is preferable because of the large, sensitive surface available to feel the pulse wave.

What are three reasons that the nurse would obtain an apical pulse?

When the apical pulse is higher than expected, your doctor will evaluate you for the following things:

fear or anxiety.
fever.
recent physical activity.
pain.
hypotension (low blood pressure)
blood loss.
insufficient oxygen intake.

How is apical pulse taken?

Apical pulse is auscultated with a stethoscope over the chest where the heart’s mitral valve is best heard. In infants and young children, the apical pulse is located at the fourth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line.