Checking pulse

gotbeerz001

Forum Deputy Chief
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Sort of like every ER pt having a resp rate of 18 or 20.
I go 16 most of the time... 18-20 if they're a little excited (but normal). I'll add ETCO2 cannula if it actually seems to be fast/slow.
 

Chewy20

Forum Deputy Chief
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I think any more than 6 seconds becomes long and awkward. You can get a reliable count with 6 seconds, monitor will confirm it.
 

RedAirplane

Forum Asst. Chief
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I think any more than 6 seconds becomes long and awkward. You can get a reliable count with 6 seconds, monitor will confirm it.

The tough one is RR. For pulse, you can just have your partner shake hands with the pt after you and not let go for a minute while you talk as if this isn't weird. Getting a good RR without making the pt alter her breathing is tough.
 

Underoath87

Forum Asst. Chief
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I count the seconds between each breath (just pick any point in the respiratory cycle and count to the next one).
2 seconds = 30 resp/min
3 sec = 20
4 sec = 15
It may not be for everyone, but I'm rarely off by more than 2 breaths per minute.
 

RedAirplane

Forum Asst. Chief
515
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I count the seconds between each breath (just pick any point in the respiratory cycle and count to the next one).
2 seconds = 30 resp/min
3 sec = 20
4 sec = 15
It may not be for everyone, but I'm rarely off by more than 2 breaths per minute.

I like that.
 
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