Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 103 of 200
The apical pulse is measured at:
a.The temporal artery, at the side of the forehead, counted for 30 seconds
b.The 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line (point of maximal impulse) using a stethoscope, counted for a full minute
c.The radial artery, at the thumb side of the wrist, counted for a full minute
d.The popliteal artery, behind the knee, counted for a full minute
Explanation
Apical pulse is auscultated with a stethoscope at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line (left, over the apex of the heart). Counted for a full 60 seconds. Used for infants, irregular rhythms, before digoxin administration, and when peripheral pulses are weak. Wrist (c) is radial; popliteal (d) is behind the knee; temple (a) is temporal. CNAs check apical for accuracy when the radial is irregular or weak.
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