Counting an apical pulse.

sikesjj · Feb 21, 2009

If you type in heart sounds on google you can find all sorts of stuff. My best advice is to listen, listen, listen to real people that is the only way to really learn. When you are in clinicals let all the nurses know that you would like to hear diffrent heart sounds and let them know you are having problems with the apical rate. You will find many are understanding and will direct you to patients to listen to. To really learn how to count heart rate listen to your dog or cat becuase they are super fast like 120 plus.

emmase10 · Feb 22, 2009

Thanks for the tips!!

shrimpchips, LPN · Feb 28, 2009

If you type in heart sounds on google you can find all sorts of stuff. My best advice is to listen, listen, listen to real people that is the only way to really learn. When you are in clinicals let all the nurses know that you would like to hear diffrent heart sounds and let them know you are having problems with the apical rate. You will find many are understanding and will direct you to patients to listen to. To really learn how to count heart rate listen to your dog or cat becuase they are super fast like 120 plus.

I agree with this. Also, if you're listening to your patient just tell them you might be listening for awhile but also assure them that nothing is necessarily wrong and that you might need to listen for awhile to make sure your findings are correct.

emmase10 · Feb 28, 2009

Thank you, that's worth a try!!

Natingale, EdD, RN · Mar 2, 2009

I had a hard time with this too, so my professor did something with me and it helped big time.

make a thumbs up ..after a lub dub is completed, tap your thumb to your fist.

Almost like you have an invisible counter, where you hit the button everytime a lub dub is completed ..then you have a rhythm, just count your thumb

Its easier done than said, trust me

emmase10 · Mar 28, 2009

Thanks I'll try it!!