A pulse, which can be felt with the fingertips or assessed using a stethoscope, is the palpation of an artery that is close to the surface of the skin. It indicates the number of times the heart beats in a minute, known as the pulse rate. However, it’s important to note that normal pulse rates can differ from person to person and can be influenced by various factors.
Locating the Pulse
When it comes to locating a pulse and determining a patient’s pulse rate, healthcare practitioners consider various factors. These factors may include the patient’s age, body type, and the specific clinical situation at hand. The choice of pulse location can vary depending on the circumstances. For instance, during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), doctors will assess the pulse at one location, whereas during a routine medical examination, they may focus on another area. Additionally, in certain cases, comparing bilateral pulses, such as those in the upper and lower extremities, can provide valuable information.
Upper Extremities
In the upper extremities, there are two peripheral pulses that can be assessed. One of them is the radial pulse, which can be found at the base of the thumb, specifically in the wrist area. This pulse is often examined during regular check-ups in adults due to its accessibility. On the other hand, the brachial pulse is situated along the inner elbow. It is commonly used to determine the heart rate when performing infant CPR.