Peripheral Pulse

Excerpt

A peripheral pulse refers to palpating the high-pressure wave of blood moving away from the heart through vessels in the extremities following systolic ejection. This phenomenon is often readily palpated and serves as a useful clinical tool, comprising one of the most commonly performed physical examination maneuvers at every level of medical care. Palpation occurs at various locations of the upper and lower extremities, including the radial, brachial, femoral, popliteal, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis arteries, and most commonly evaluates the rate, rhythm, intensity, and symmetry. Peripheral pulses can be used to identify many different types of pathology. Finally, modern medical technology allows for further evaluation of pulses beyond palpation, such as using Doppler ultrasound to characterize the pulse waveform.