Today’s NCLEX-RN® question of the day focuses on an abnormal pulse. Do you know the answer? Let’s find out!
The nurse is reviewing the vital signs of several patients in the pediatric emergency department.
Which patient has an abnormal pulse?
A. An 8-year-old patient with a radial pulse of 88/min
B. A 6-month-old patient with an apical pulse of 121/min
C. A 14-year-old patient with a brachial pulse of 94/min
D. 4-year-old patient with a pulse of 131/min
Scroll down for the correct answer!
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The correct answer to today’s NCLEX-RN® Question is…
D. 4-year-old patient with a pulse of 131/min
Rationale: A pulse of 131/min is referred to as tachycardia for a 4-year-old client. Tachycardia is when the pulse rate is faster than normal. For preschoolers ages three to five, the normal pulse is between 80 to 120/min.
Main Takeaway
Normal pulse rate varies among different age groups. For those 12 years of age or older, it is typically between 60/min and 100/min. For school-aged children between 5 and 12 years old, it is 75/min to 110/min. For preschoolers from three to five, it is 80/min to 120/min. Toddlers from one to three have a normal pulse rate of 80/min to 130/min. Finally, infants under one year of age normally have the fastest pulse rate, which ranges from 120/min to 160/min. Tachycardia is when the pulse rate is faster than normal, and this can occur in response to strenuous exercise, fever, pain, anxiety, or certain medications. In contrast, bradycardia means that the pulse rate is too slow and can be due to heart problems or various medications.
Incorrect Answer Explanations
A. An 8-year-old patient with a radial pulse of 88/min
Rationale: The normal pulse for school-aged children between 5 and 12 years old is 75 to 110/min. Therefore, this is considered normal.
B. A 6-month-old patient with an apical pulse of 121/min
Rationale: The normal pulse for an infant is 80 to 130/min; therefore,121 is an anticipated finding for an infant.
C. A 14-year-old patient with a brachial pulse of 94/min
Rationale: For clients 12 years of age or older, the normal pulse is between 60 and 100/min.
Want to learn more about this topic?
Watch the Osmosis video: Vital signs – Pulse: Nursing skills
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