pulse rhythm and quality

Pulse rhythm

The pattern of the intervals between heartbeats.

Normal pulse rhythm

Regular, with beats occurring at regular intervals.

Regularly irregular rhythm

An irregular rhythm that follows a noticeable pattern.

Irregularly irregular rhythm

An unpredictable irregular rhythm.

Dysrhythmia

An abnormal heart rhythm.

Pulse quality

The strength or volume of the pulse.

Pulse volume

The amount of force produced by blood pulsing through the arteries.

Pulse 0

Absent — pulse cannot be felt.

Pulse 1

Weak or thready — barely felt and easily obliterated.

Pulse 2

Normal — easily palpated.

Pulse 3

Bounding or full — very strong and difficult to obliterate.

Bilateral equality

Comparing pulses on both sides of the body to see if they have equal strength.

Weak or absent peripheral pulse

May indicate compromised circulation to that extremity.

Pallor

Paleness of the skin, which may occur when circulation is compromised.

Cyanosis

Bluish or grayish skin discoloration caused by deficient oxygen in the blood.