The radial pulse is a common point for checking your heart rate. It is the rhythmic expansion and recoil of the radial artery, located in your wrist, as blood is pushed through with each heartbeat. Checking this pulse helps monitor various aspects of health.
Steps for Measuring Radial Pulse
To accurately measure the radial pulse, begin by having the individual sit in a relaxed position. Position their arm with the palm facing upward, allowing for easy access to the wrist. Locate the radial artery on the thumb side of the wrist, in the groove between the wrist bone and the tendon.
Once the location is identified, place the pads of your index and middle fingers gently on the artery. Avoid using your thumb, as it has its own pulse and could lead to an inaccurate reading. Apply just enough pressure to feel the pulsation; pressing too hard can block the blood flow and make the pulse disappear, while not enough pressure might make it undetectable.
With your fingers in place and a clock or watch with a second hand ready, begin counting the beats. If the pulse feels regular, count the beats for 30 seconds and then multiply that number by two to determine the beats per minute (bpm). However, if the pulse feels irregular, count for a full 60 seconds.
Key Information to Document
Documenting radial pulse findings involves recording specific details beyond just the rate. The pulse rate, expressed in beats per minute, is the primary measurement. For example, if you counted 32 beats in 30 seconds, the rate would be 64 beats per minute.
Beyond the numerical rate, the rhythm of the pulse should be noted. This describes whether the beats occur at regular intervals or if they are irregular. An irregular rhythm should always be documented.
The strength or volume of the pulse is another element to record. This refers to how strong the pulsation feels against your fingertips. Common descriptions include “strong,” “weak,” “thready” (very weak), or “bounding” (very strong). This force indicates the heart’s pumping efficiency and the volume of blood being moved with each beat. Always record the exact date and time the pulse was measured for future comparisons.
Interpreting Radial Pulse Findings
A normal resting radial pulse for adults typically falls within a range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, this range can vary based on factors such as age, fitness level, medications, and even emotions. For instance, well-trained athletes may have a lower resting pulse, sometimes as low as 40 to 60 beats per minute, due to their efficient heart function.
Deviations from the typical range can sometimes suggest underlying conditions. A pulse consistently above 100 beats per minute at rest is known as tachycardia, while a pulse consistently below 60 beats per minute is called bradycardia. An irregular pulse rhythm can also be a sign of a heart issue.
It is important to seek professional medical advice if your resting radial pulse is consistently outside the expected range, or if you experience symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath alongside an abnormal pulse. While measuring your pulse can be a helpful health indicator, it is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis.