Test Yourself: List in the Correct Order

List the steps below in the correct order for each of the following techniques. Write your list on a piece of paper.

Radial Pulse Technique

• Note the rate, rhythm, force, and equality when measuring the radial pulse
• Use the pads of your first three fingers to gently palpate the radial pulse along the radius bone close to the flexor aspect of the wrist
• Press down with your fingers until you can best feel the pulsation

Carotid Pulse Technique

• Gently palpate the carotid artery one at a time
• Note the rate, rhythm, force, and equality when measuring the carotid pulse
• Locate the carotid artery medial to the sternomastoid muscle in the middle third of the neck
• Ask the client to sit upright.

Apical Pulse Technique

• Physically palpate the intercostal spaces to locate the landmark of the apical pulse
• Ask the client to lay flat in a supine position
• Note the rate and rhythm
• Auscultate the apical pulse

Brachial Pulse Technique

• Move your fingers medial from the tendon and about one inch above the antecubital fossa to locate the brachial pulse
• Palpate the bicep tendon in the area of the antecubital fossa
• Note the rate and rhythm

Respiration Technique

• Count for 30 seconds if the rhythm is regular or for a full minute if it is irregular
• Observe the rise and fall of the chest or abdomen
• Leave your fingers in place when you are done counting the pulse, and then begin assessing respiration
• Report the respirations as breaths per minute, as well as whether breathing is relaxed, silent, and has a regular rhythm