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.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

What Steps Should the Nurse Take to Conduct an Assessment