Midterm Question 48 of 202 1 Point Two nursing assistants obtain apical and radial pulse rates at the same time. One nursing assistant states the patient has a pulse deficit of 12 beats per minute. This information would be obtained by the following data: Assessments Instructors apical pulse 88 beats per minute, radial pulse 76 beats per minute. apical pulse 94 beats per minute, radial pulse 90 beats per minute. apical pulse 84 beats per minute, radial pulse 70 beats per minute. apical pulse 96 beats per minute, radial pulse 88 beats per minute. Previous

When assessing for a pulse deficit, the key is to compare the apical pulse rate to the radial pulse rate. A healthy heart should maintain a similar count, but in cases where the radial pulse is weaker due to issues such as poor circulation or arrhythmias, a deficit may occur. In your example, the only scenario that fits with a 12 beats per minute deficit is where the apical pulse is 88 beats per minute and the radial pulse is 76 beats per minute. Understanding how to accurately assess and report pulse rates is vital for gauging a patient's cardiovascular health. Pulse deficits can signal significant issues, like heart failure, so nursing assistants play a crucial role in detecting these changes early. Always remember to use an appropriate technique and to report any abnormalities to a supervising nurse!