Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Taking a Radial Pulse

Material needed:

Procedure:

  1. Explain what your are going to do
  2. Ask client to lay down or rest in a chair
  3. Wash your hands
  4. Obtain material listed above
  5. Locate radial pulse. Use your middle third finger press down on radial artery
  6. Note the following:

    Strong or weak
    Regular or irregular

  7. Count the beats for one minute
  8. Write the pulse rate on the paper. Also note the strength and regularity of beats
  9. Assist client, as needed, into desired position
  10. Record pulse on client's record
  11. Report any abnormal pulse conditions to your supervisor