Pulse Measurement: What Affects The Test

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What Affects the Test

You may not be able to feel your pulse or count your pulse correctly if you:

• Have decreased sensation in your fingers.
• Are not using the right amount of pressure. Too much pressure can slow the heart rate, and too little pressure can cause you to miss some beats.
• Are trying to take your pulse in an area that is covered by too much muscle or fat.
• Are using your thumb to take your pulse. Your thumb has its own pulse, which will interfere with your counting.
• Are moving too much while trying to take your pulse.

Last updated:	April 17, 2008
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer