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Vital Signs

Counts and Records Radial Pulse

Place the pads of your index and middle fingers (never your thumb) over the radial artery on the thumb side of the resident's inner wrist. Count the beats for a full 60 seconds while watching a clock or watch with a second hand.

2-3 minutes•9 steps•1 critical
Index and middle fingers on the thumb side of the wrist. Count for a full minute.

Why this matters

Index and middle fingers on the thumb side of the wrist. Count for a full minute.

Quick tips

  • Count for one full minute, no shortcuts.
  • Fingertips on the thumb side of the wrist, not your thumb.
  • The pulse you record must be within 4 beats of the evaluator.

Common mistakes

  • Counting for 30 seconds and doubling, which can miss an uneven rhythm and may put your number outside 4 beats.
  • Using your thumb to feel the pulse instead of your fingertips.
  • Looking away from the clock and losing count; start again rather than guess.
  • Writing the number before washing hands, or forgetting the signaling device.