During the primary assessment of a geriatric patient complaining of shortness of breath and fever, you quickly locate the radial pulse. What should you do next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The radial pulse is a peripheral pulse that can be used to assess the heart rate and rhythm. It is located on the thumb side of the wrist, just below the base of the thumb. To assess the radial pulse, place two fingers on the pulse point and apply gentle pressure. Count the number of beats in 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the heart rate. Also, note the regularity of the pulse and the strength of the beats.

During the Primary Assessment of a Geriatric Patient Complaining of Shortness