Apical Pulse Template
Description of Skill
The Apical Pulse is taken during a cardiac assessment at the Mitral valve point in the 5th
intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
Nursing Interventions (pre, intra, post)
Gather all equipment, perform hand hygiene,
wear PPE as appropriate. Provide privacy,
explain procedure and offer guidance through
the process. Document findings and alert the
health care professional if any findings are
abnormal. Apical pulse should be observed
over a period of at least 1 minute.
Outcomes/Evaluation
Client Education
Apical pulse can show cardiac function and
should be regarded when making decisions Instruct client to not speak during evaluation
about cardiac changes. and breathe normally. Inform client that the
process will take one full minute.
Potential Complications Nursing Interventions
Apical pulse can determine several different Any cardiac arrhythmia medications will be
cardiac issues that may lead to potential used as interventions
increases for thrombosis, ischemia,
hemorrhage, aneurysm, or veinous
insufficiency.
Description of Skill
The Apical Pulse is taken during a cardiac assessment at the Mitral valve point in the 5th
intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
Nursing Interventions (pre, intra, post)
Gather all equipment, perform hand hygiene,
wear PPE as appropriate. Provide privacy,
explain procedure and offer guidance through
the process. Document findings and alert the
health care professional if any findings are
abnormal. Apical pulse should be observed
over a period of at least 1 minute.
Outcomes/Evaluation
Client Education
Apical pulse can show cardiac function and
should be regarded when making decisions Instruct client to not speak during evaluation
about cardiac changes. and breathe normally. Inform client that the
process will take one full minute.
Potential Complications Nursing Interventions
Apical pulse can determine several different Any cardiac arrhythmia medications will be
cardiac issues that may lead to potential used as interventions
increases for thrombosis, ischemia,
hemorrhage, aneurysm, or veinous
insufficiency.
