How do you properly take a patient's pulse?

To properly take a patient's pulse, it is essential to ensure accurate measurement of the heart rate, which is usually done by locating the pulse at either the wrist (radial pulse) or neck (carotid pulse). The correct method involves counting the beats for a full minute to obtain a precise reading. This allows for assessment of the heart's rhythm and strength, which can provide important information about the patient's cardiovascular health.

Counting for just 15 seconds and multiplying by four can introduce error, particularly if the heart rate is irregular, as you may miss fluctuations that a full minute counting would catch. Similarly, using the thumb to apply pressure isn't an effective or recommended technique for obtaining a pulse reading, as the thumb has its own pulse which can confuse the reading. Lastly, measuring the pulse while the patient is moving can lead to inaccuracies, as movement affects the heart rate and the ability to palpate a consistent pulse. Therefore, taking the pulse while the patient is at rest and counting for a full minute provides the most reliable measurement.