Test Yourself

Now that you have completed this chapter, it’s time to test your knowledge. Try to answer the following questions (you may want to review parts of the chapter before answering). Write your answers down on a piece of paper.

1. What is the apical pulse rate?

Listen to the audio clip of the apical pulse. Count the pulse for 30 seconds and report the rate as beats per minute (NOTE: although this clip only allows you to count for 30 seconds, remember, it is best to count the apical pulse for one minute).

Audio clip 3.2: Apical pulse

Alternatively, if viewing textbook as a pdf, use this link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/znhbVRZRLfM?rel=0

2. What is the apical pulse rate?

Listen to the audio clip of the apical pulse. Count the pulse for 30 seconds and report the rate as beats per minute (NOTE: although this clip only allows you to count for 30 seconds, remember, it is best to count the apical pulse for one minute).

Audio clip 3.3: Apical pulse

Alternatively, if viewing textbook as a pdf, use this link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hxd68qJfzhQ?rel=0

3. How should a healthcare provider respond when a newborn has an apical heart rate of 120 beats per minute?

a. Re-take the rate at the brachial location

b. Document the rate and assess it as normal

c. Document the rate and identify it as tachycardia

d. Notify the physician and identify it as bradycardia

4. Which findings should be of most concern to the healthcare provider in an adolescent client?

a. Pulse 40 bpm and respiration 34

b. Respiration 16 and pulse 82 bpm

c. Pulse 68 bpm and sinus arrhythmia

d. Pulse 2+, 78 bpm, and regular rhythm

5. Match the findings that are typically normal for the person listed:

Sinus arrhythmia                    Athlete

Bradycardia                            Newborn

Abdominal breather               Adolescent