Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 97 For Pedal Pulse: a. Expose the top of both feet. b. Locate the dorsalis pedis artery on the top of the foot. Place 1st, 2nd fingers along that artery and press down gently over bony structure. c. Assess pulse for volume and regularity. Assess color and temperature of feet. 4. Using the second hand on your watch or clock, count the number of pulsations felt for thirty seconds and multiply by two to obtain the pulse rate. An irregular pulse with abnormal volume should be counted for a full minute. 5. Wash hands. DOCUMENTATION: Document in the patient's clinical record the character of the pulse, the rate, the site, and any other pertinent information. If further action is indicated, document follow-up/notification of Clinical Manager and/or physician. ____________________________________________________