Asked by Ginger Oxendine on Jun 14, 2024
Verified
What steps should the nurse take to conduct an assessment of a possible pulse deficit?
A) A nurse measures the pulse after the patient exercises.
B) Two nurses check the same pulse on opposite sides of the body.
C) Two nurses assess the apical and radial pulses and determine the difference.
D) The current pulse is compared with previous pulse measurements for differences.
Pulse Deficit
The difference between the heart rate and the palpable pulse rate, which can indicate cardiac dysfunctions such as arrhythmias.
Apical
Pertaining to the tip or apex of an organ or structure, such as the apex of the heart.
Radial Pulses
The pulse felt at the wrist where the radial artery runs, commonly used to measure heart rate.
- Acknowledge and correctly address changes in vital signs that could signify clinical transformations or urgent conditions.
Verified Answer
RN
Rahma Nur AiniJun 18, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Locate apical and radial pulse sites.One nurse auscultates the apical pulse,and one nurse palpates the radial pulse.Both nurses count the pulse rate for 60 seconds simultaneously.Subtract the radial rate from the apical rate to obtain the pulse deficit.The pulse deficit reflects the number of ineffective cardiac contractions in 1 minute.If a pulse deficit is noted,assess for other signs and symptoms of decreased cardiac output.
Learning Objectives
- Acknowledge and correctly address changes in vital signs that could signify clinical transformations or urgent conditions.