18 Vital Signs – Counting and Recording Radial Pulse and Respirations:

• Perform hand hygiene and explain the procedure.

1

• Locate the radial pulse on the thumb side of the resident’s wrist.

2

• Count the pulse: Count for one full minute while informing the RN when starting and stopping; record the rate (within 4 beats of the RN’s count).

3

• Count respirations: Count for one full minute and record the rate (within 2 breaths of the RN’s count).

4

• Place a call light within reach, maintain respectful interactions, and perform hand hygiene.

5