Questions and Answers
Define apical pulse.
Pulse count taken with a stethoscope at the apex of the heart.
List two diseases or conditions a patient may have that would require an apical pulse to be taken.
Hardening of the arteries and irregular heartbeats.
Why are apical pulses usually taken on infants and children?
Children and infants have rapid radial pulse counts.
What causes the lubb-dupp heart sounds that are heard while taking an apical pulse?
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What should you do if you hear any abnormal sounds or beats while taking an apical pulse?
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What causes a pulse deficit or a higher rate for an apical pulse than a radial pulse?
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How to calculate the pulse deficit?
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How is the stethoscope cleaned before and after an apical pulse is taken?
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Study Notes
Apical Pulse Overview
- Apical pulse is counted at the apex of the heart using a stethoscope.
- The procedure is vital for assessing heart activity and overall cardiovascular health.
Conditions Requiring Apical Pulse
- Hardening of the arteries may necessitate apical pulse checks to monitor heart function.
- Irregular heartbeats require careful pulse measurement to evaluate the heart's rhythm and strength.
Apical Pulse in Infants and Children
- Infants and children generally have rapid radial pulse rates, making apical pulse assessments more reliable.
Heart Sounds and Pulse Measurement
- The "lubb-dupp" sounds result from the closing of heart valves during blood flow through heart chambers, crucial for pulse assessment.
Reporting Abnormalities
- If abnormal sounds or beats are detected during measurement, it is essential to report these findings to a supervisor for further evaluation.
Pulse Deficit Explanation
- A higher apical pulse rate than the radial pulse indicates a pulse deficit, often due to a weak heart unable to effectively pump blood.
Calculating Pulse Deficit
- To calculate pulse deficit, subtract the radial pulse from the apical pulse (e.g., Apical pulse 104, Radial pulse 80: 104 - 80 = 24).
Stethoscope Hygiene
- Before and after taking an apical pulse, the stethoscope should be cleaned with alcohol to prevent cross-contamination and maintain hygiene.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential concepts of apical pulse measurement, including techniques, conditions that necessitate checks, and the significance of heart sounds. Special focus is given to measuring pulse in infants and children, along with reporting abnormalities. Test your understanding of cardiovascular health and pulse assessment.
