MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Palpation should be done using the fingertips and intensity of the pulse graded on a scale of 0 to 4 +:0 indicating no palpable pulse; 1 + indicating a faint, but detectable pulse; 2 + suggesting a slightly more diminished pulse than normal; 3 + is a normal pulse; and 4 + indicating a bounding pulse.

Detailed explanation-2: -Zero refers to a nonpalpable pulse, 1+ is a barely detectable pulse, 2+ is slightly diminished but greater than 1+, 3+ is a normal pulse and should be easily palpable, and 4+ is “bounding” (e.g., stronger than normal).

Detailed explanation-3: -Count your pulse for 60 seconds (or for 15 seconds and then multiply by four to calculate beats per minute). When counting, do not watch the clock continuously, but concentrate on the beats of the pulse. If unsure about your results, ask another person to count for you.

Detailed explanation-4: -Lightly press two or more fingers against the skin if you can’t see anything. Start at the toes and work your way up to the leg until you feel the pulse. Switch to the other leg if you cannot identify the pedal pulse. Locating where one pulse is could help you assess the other.