Questions and Answers
What is an apical pulse?
Pulse taken with stethoscope at the apex of the heart.
List two diseases or conditions that may require taking an apical pulse.
Pulse deficit, Tachycardia.
Why are apical pulses taken on children and infants?
Because they have very rapid radial pulse counts.
What causes the lubb-dupp sounds during an apical pulse assessment?
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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 is the stethoscope cleaned before and after an apical pulse is taken?
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Study Notes
Apical Pulse
- Defined as the pulse recorded at the apex of the heart using a stethoscope.
Diseases or Conditions Necessitating Apical Pulse
- Commonly required for patients with pulse deficit, a condition where the heart rate is not accurately reflected at the radial pulse.
- Important for monitoring tachycardia, characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate.
Importance in Children and Infants
- Necessary to measure apical pulse in children and infants due to their very rapid radial pulse counts, which can complicate accurate heart rate assessments.
Lubb-Dupp Sounds
- The characteristic sounds during an apical pulse measurement originate from the closing of heart valves during blood flow through the heart’s chambers.
Reporting Abnormal Sounds
- Any unusual beats or sounds detected while taking an apical pulse should be reported immediately for further evaluation.
Understanding Pulse Deficit
- A pulse deficit occurs when there is insufficient time for the heart to fill with blood, resulting in a higher apical pulse rate compared to the radial pulse.
- Calculation involves subtracting the radial pulse from the apical pulse count.
Cleaning Protocol for Stethoscope
- The stethoscope must be thoroughly wiped with alcohol before and after taking an apical pulse to ensure proper hygiene and prevent infection.
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Description
Test your knowledge on measuring and recording the apical pulse with these flashcards. Learn the definitions and significance of apical pulse, as well as conditions that necessitate its measurement. Perfect for nursing or healthcare students wanting to enhance their understanding of cardiac monitoring.
