State Exam tomorrow 8/2 a few more questions. Sorry.

[Starletta, CNA]

Sorry to drive everyone crazy with more questions, but my State Exam is tomorrow - 8/2. Due to taking care of my elderly mom, who was recently diagnosed with early stages of Dementia, Dr. visits, setting up her pills, cooking..etc. I haven't have much time to get the skills portion down where I feel very comfortable.

2 questions (for now :) ) Is it easier to watch the stomach/diaphragm when counting respirations?

I know how to take a pulse, BUT have a hard time, especially when the minute is almost over. I find myself watching the second hand on my watch and inadvertently start counting that as the pulse, since they are almost identical in "speed".

Any tips to just concentrate on the pulse and not the second hand on the watch, especially when the minute is almost up?

Thank you.....

[CarolinaGirl1112]

1. I find it easier to watch the stomach to count respirations.

2. I understand this issue as it was very common in my class. What I like to do is not stare at the clock, but just give it a quick glance every few seconds until it gets close to the end and then I watch it. It helps me to start when the second hand is at 12, 3, 6, or 9...that way I'm not actually counting the seconds, I'm just waiting for the hand to get back into its starting position. Am I making any sense?