Essential of Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

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The nurse has determined the rate of both the child's radial pulse and heart. What is the normal finding when comparing the two rates?

  • A. Are the same
  • B. Differ, with heart rate faster
  • C. Differ, with radial pulse faster
  • D. Differ, depending on quality and intensity
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a normal healthy individual, the rate of the radial pulse (peripheral pulse) and the heart rate (apical pulse) should be the same. This is because each heartbeat should result in a corresponding pulse felt at the radial artery in the wrist. The pulse is generated by the heart's contraction and the subsequent ejection of blood into the arteries, causing a wave of pressure that can be felt as the pulse. Therefore, in a healthy individual, the radial pulse rate should match the heart rate. If there is a significant difference between the two rates, it may indicate a cardiovascular abnormality or other underlying health condition that warrants further investigation.