This video guides CNAs through the correct procedure to measure a resident’s radial pulse and accurately record the result — a key skill for caregivers and clinical staff.

Remember: Normal Pulse Rate is between 60-100 BPM. Always report abnormal values to the Nurse. 

You will need the following when Measuring and Recording Pulse: 

• Documentation Sheet
• Pen
• Watch or Clock

1. Preparation & Hand Hygiene

• Read and follow the Care Plan, the whole Care Plan, and nothing but the Care Plan.
• Knock and announce yourself before entering.
• Greet the Resident by name and introduce yourself.
• Explain the task to the Resident and ensure their comfort and consent.
• Close the Privacy Curtain
• Wash your hands thoroughly before beginning.
• Assess Glove Rules (Are Gloves required for this Resident?)

2. Positioning the Resident

• Ask the Resident to extend one arm comfortably, palm up.
• Support the arm at the elbow and ensure the Resident is relaxed and sitting or lying calmly.

3. Locating the Radial Pulse

• Place the pads of your second and third fingers lightly on the thumb side of the Resident’s wrist, just below the base of the thumb.
• Don’t use your thumb, as it has its own pulse.

4. Counting the Pulse

• Once you feel the pulse, count the beats for a full 60 seconds to ensure accuracy.
• Remember to vocalize “Start” when you begin counting, and “Stop” when you finish counting. This ensures accuracy with the Evaluator. 
• If counting for 60 seconds isn’t required (e.g., facility protocol), count for 30 seconds and multiply by two—verify with your site’s guidelines first.
• Remove fingers from the Resident’s wrist.

5. Address Resident Comfort

• Ensure Resident is comfortable.
• Ask about Resident needs and preferences.
• Provide Resident with Call light.
• Open the Privacy curtain and ensure bed is in lowest position.

6. Recording the Measurement

• Thoroughly wash your hands.
• Record the pulse rate (beats per minute).
• Record additional relevant observations: rhythm (regular vs irregular), strength (strong vs weak), and any other pertinent info on the appropriate form or electronic record.
• Thoroughly wash your hands. 
• Think about the Steps of your Skill. Make any corrections. Tell the evaluator your Skills is complete. 

• Not reading and following the Care Plan, the whole Care Plan, and nothing but the Care Plan. 
• Not counting for the time indicated on the care plan
• Using a different pulse point other than radial
• Using your thumb to take the pulse
• Not documenting your reading

Remember: Normal Pulse Rate is between 60-100 BPM. Always report abnormal values to the Nurse.