Where is the apical pulse in the heart?

Apical pulse is taken at the fifth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line. What is an apical pulse? Your pulse, or heart rate, is an important indicator of health and is the vibration of blood as your heart pumps it through your arteries. You can feel your pulse by placing your fingers over a large artery that lies close to your skin.

When to use a stethoscope for apical pulse?

A stethoscope is used to measure the apical pulse, and it is best assessed while the patient is either lying down or sitting. Apical pulse happens when the left ventricle of the heart contracts. Left ventricle forms the apex of the heart. Hence, the apical pulse is best measured by placing a stethoscope over the area of the apex.

When is the best time to take an apical pulse?

When should an apical pulse be taken? The apical pulse is typically taken during a cardiac exam if a patient has a family history of heart disease or has been experiencing symptoms of heart disease including chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue.

How can I find out if I have an irregular apical pulse?

Count the number of lub-dubs that occur within a 30-second period, then multiply the total by two to determine the heart rate per minute. If a person has an irregular apical pulse, their doctor may order an apical-radial pulse deficit assessment. This test requires two healthcare professionals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuQ2HBKiQJY

Please try again later. Apical pulse assessment and location demonstration for nurses: Where is the location of the apical pulse? It is found on the left side of the chest in the 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line. The apical pulse is also the location of PMI (point of maximal impulse) and is at the apex of the heart.

When is the apical pulse rate considered abnormal?

An apical pulse rate is typically considered abnormal in an adult if it’s above 100 beats per minute (bpm) or below 60 bpm. Your ideal heart rate at rest and during physical activity are very different. Children have a higher resting pulse rate than adults.