Pulse

1. Pulse
Taking and recording

2. Aims and objectives
• To understand what the pulse is.
• What to look for when taking a pulse.
• What affects the pulse.
• Normal levels.
• Procedure for taking and recording a pulse and score on early warning
charts.

3. What is a pulse?
• A rhythmic throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled though them.
Why is it taken?
• To gather information.
• Rate. Normal adult rage 60-100 BPM
• Pattern of beats.
• Rhythm.
• Strength.

4. Sites
• Radial – Wrist
• Carotid – Neck
• Brachial – Elbow
• Femoral – Groin
• Popliteal – Behind the knee
• Posterior tibia – Inner ankle
• Dorsalis Pedis – Top of foot

5. Correct Method
• Use 2nd and 3rd fingers
• Normal range for a healthy adults: 51-100

6. Tachycardia
A rise in heart rate above the normal range.
Signs and symptoms.
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Light headed
• Fainting

7. Causes
• Age
• Alcohol
• To much caffeine
• Hypertension (High blood pressure)
• Stress
• Smoking
• Recreational drugs

8. Bradycardia
Slowness of the beating of the heart with corresponding slowness of the
pulse below 60 BPM
Signs and Symptoms:
• Fainting
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Short of breath
• Chest pain

9. Causes
• Aging
• Coronary heart disease
• Infection such as endocarditis
• Drugs

10. ECG TRACING

11. Any Questions?
Feel free to get in touch with any queries about the information covered in
this presentation
Andrea.bhogall@qehkl.nhs.uk
Ryan.slater@qehkl.nhs.uk
01553 214583