Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Unit 19 Pulse and Respiration
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Spell and define terms. Define pulse. Explain the importance of monitoring a pulse rate. Locate the pulse sites. Identify the range of normal pulse and respiratory rates.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Measure the pulse at different locations. List the characteristics of the pulse and respiration. List eight guidelines for using the stethoscope.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. The Pulse Pressure of the blood felt against the wall of an artery –As the heart alternately contracts and relaxes More easily felt in arteries that are fairly close to the skin
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. The Pulse Same in all arteries throughout the body An indication of how the cardiovascular system is meeting the body’s needs
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Radial Pulse Most commonly measured pulse It is measured at the radial artery in the wrist
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Using a Stethoscope Clean ear pieces and diaphragm of the stethoscope before using it Clean stethoscope tubing if it contacts patient or bed linen Check ear pieces for wax –Remove it if present
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Using a Stethoscope Check stethoscope tubing –Do not use if it has cracks or holes in it Position ear pieces facing forward
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Using a Stethoscope Diaphragm of stethoscope –Should not contact the patient’s clothing, blood pressure cuff, or other device Place diaphragm flat against the skin and hold it in place –If the diaphragm is at an angle You will not be able to hear the sounds
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Using a Stethoscope Apply firm, but gentle pressure when holding the diaphragm in place –If you press too hard, you may be unable to hear the sound
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. The Apical Pulse Measured by counting the heart contractions
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Apical-Radial Pulse Rate Apical and radial pulse rate is a comparison of the apical rate and the radial rate –Usually, they are the same
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Respiration The main function of respiration is to supply cells in the body with oxygen –To rid the body of excess carbon dioxide
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Respiration Since breathing may be voluntarily controlled –Patient should not know you are counting respirations Note whether the patient’s breathing is –Normal (easy) or labored (dyspneic) –Shallow or deep, and quiet or noisy
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Respiration Check the muscles of the neck and abdomen If the patient is using these muscles for breathing, inform the nurse