Where is the apical pulse, and what can it indicate?
Examples of such symptoms include: Apical pulse measurements usually take place while a person is either sitting or lying down. The doctor will place a stethoscope on the left side of the breastbone, over the apex of the heart. They can also feel the apical pulse at the point of maximal impulse (PMI).
Can a doctor diagnose an irregular apical pulse?
An irregular apical pulse may indicate an underlying heart condition. However, a doctor cannot make an official diagnosis based on a person’s apical pulse alone. In this article, we describe the procedure for measuring the apical pulse. We also outline the health conditions and other factors that can affect the apical pulse.
Can a obese person take an apical pulse?
Apical pulses may also be taken in obese people, because their peripheral pulses are sometimes difficult to palpate. Position the client in a supine (lying flat) or in a seated position. Physically palpate the intercostal spaces to locate the landmark of the apical pulse.
Why is apical pulse rate important for infants?
There is a pediatric-size stethoscope for infants. Typically, apical pulse rate is taken for a full minute to ensure accuracy; this is particularly important in infants and children due to the possible presence of sinus arrhythmia.
When is the best time to take an apical pulse?
When should an apical pulse be taken? The apical pulse is typically taken during a cardiac exam if a patient has a family history of heart disease or has been experiencing symptoms of heart disease including chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue.
What should my apical pulse be before digoxin?
As the nurse, you will be assessing the apical pulse during a cardiac assessment and before administering certain types of cardiac medications, such as Digoxin (cardiac glycoside). A normal apical pulse is 60-100 bpm in an adult.