Dumb question

[perfectbluebuildings, BSN, RN]

Okay, this is probably a really dumb question, but I have a patient tomorrow for clinical who had a stroke some years ago and has paralysis on his left side. Now should I still be able to find his pedal pulses on that side? I guess I should, but last week I couldn't, but he also has edema in his ankles so that might have something to do with it. Or, I could have been palpating for the dorsalis pedis pulse in the wrong place. But thanks for any help you can give me!!

[Jennerizer, ASN, RN]

His pulses may be weak. Could you find it on his right side?

[Rena RN 2003, RN]

yes he will still have pulses because circulation is still necessary for that limb to be viable.

[LilgirlRN, ADN, RN]

He will have pulses but they may be weaker on that side. Look at the assessments that have been done before and see what they say. If you can't feel it but the foot is pink and warm then you probably have missed the spot, you can press too hard and occlude the artery so go with a light touch. If you can't feel the pulse and the foot is cool and dusky get someone to show you how to use the doppler and make sure he does have one. Have fun tomorrow :)

[perfectbluebuildings, BSN, RN]

Thanks to all who replied! You helped me a lot- and, I was actually able to find a pulse in his foot today!! :)

[KimRN03]

If you are having problems finding his pedal pulse, try a Doppler. That always seems to help. Keep it in mind next time!