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. It's best to wait until after you take the patient's health history so that they can sit for 5 minutes. Otherwise, you may get a falsely elevated blood pressure result. Choose a blood pressure cuff in the appropriate size for the patient and put it on them. Then, take their blood pressure and note the results. After taking the patient's blood pressure, take their radial pulse, which is located in their wrist. Press your index and middle finger against the vein to locate the pulse, then count the beats for 1 minute. You can also count the beats for 15 seconds and then multiply the result by 4 for an approximate heart rate. For example, if you count 20 beats in 15 seconds, then their heart rate is approximately 80 beats per minute. per minute. Instruct the patient to breathe normally while you count the number of breaths they take in 1 minute. Count 1 breath each time the patient inhales and exhales. Do not count the inhalations and exhalations separately. With practice, you should be able to count respirations while taking a patient's pulse. After you have some experience, you may be able to complete this part of the exam while you are taking the patient's vitals. Note if the patient appears well-groomed. Check to see if their hair, skin, and nails look healthy. Make sure to note any unusual physical signs including: Muscle pattern, such as a noticeable lack of muscle in the arms or legs Hair distribution, such as thinning hair on their head Odors, such as a foul odor indicating poor hygiene Movement and coordination, such as being unable to follow a pen with their eyes
Check the patient's blood pressure Take the patient's radial pulse. Count the patient's breaths Assess the patient's general appearance, hair, skin, and nails.