What is the correct procedure for taking a resident's pulse?

Taking a resident's pulse accurately is essential for monitoring their cardiovascular health. The correct method involves placing your fingers on the radial artery, which is located on the wrist, just below the base of the thumb. Counting the beats for a full 60 seconds ensures that you capture an accurate representation of the heart rate, as pulse rates can vary significantly in short intervals. This method integrates precision with a sufficient timeframe to account for any fluctuations that may occur in heartbeats.

Using the radial artery is also the standard practice in many healthcare settings because it is easily accessible and allows for an efficient pulse check in most patients. Some methods involving shorter counts or other arteries may not provide the same level of reliability in reading the pulse rate. By counting for a full minute, any irregularities in rhythm can be noted, which is vital for assessing the patient's heart health comprehensively.