Radial Pulse Assessment and Palpation: Nursing, CNA Skill

The radial pulse site is one of the most common pulse points used during a nursing or CNA skill assessment. In this video, I demonstrate how to check the radial pulse.

First, you'll want to perform hand hygiene and explain to the patient what you'll be doing.

While we are feeling the pulse, we'll be counting the pulse rate. However, we'll also be grading the pulse on the following scale:

0: Pulse is absent
1+: Pulse is weak
2+: Pulse is normal
3+: Pulse is bounding

In addition, you'll also want to assess the rhythm of the radial pulse. Is it regular or irregular.

When examining the radial pulse, use the thumb as your landmark. Go down the thumb until you come to the distal part of the radial bone. Make sure the patient is supporting their arm.

Use your first two or three fingers to feel the pulse, ensuring that you don't use your thumb, as it has its own pulse. Palpate the distal part of the radial bone, just under the thumb, to find the radial artery's pulse.

Count the pulse for 30 seconds if the pulse is normal, and multiply it by two. If the pulse is irregular, count it for a full minute and record the result.

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