CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsEasy
A nurse aide is checking a resident's radial pulse. Which of the following pulse rates falls within the normal adult range?
- A110 beats per minute
- B124 beats per minute
- C76 beats per minute
- D48 beats per minute
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 76 beats per minute
The normal adult resting pulse rate is 60-100 beats per minute. 76 bpm falls within this range, while 48 is bradycardia and 110/124 are tachycardia.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 110 bpm is above normal (tachycardia).
- B. 124 bpm is well above normal (tachycardia).
- D. 48 bpm is below normal (bradycardia).
Normal Pulse Rate
The normal resting pulse rate for an adult is 60-100 beats per minute.
- Below 60 bpm = bradycardia
- Above 100 bpm = tachycardia
- Radial pulse is commonly checked at the wrist
Memory trick: '60 to 100 keeps the heart humming'