Final answer:
To document the pulse on top of the foot, palpate the dorsalis pedis artery with your fingertips and count the beats for 30 seconds to a minute to determine the pulse rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
To document a pulse on top of the foot, you would palpate the dorsalis pedis artery. This is done by placing the tips of your fingers just lateral to the extensor tendon of the big toe, where the artery runs close to the surface. You would press lightly and feel for the rhythmic beating of the pulse. The pulse rate should be counted for at least 30 seconds and then doubled to obtain the beats per minute, or for a full minute for accuracy, especially if the pulse is irregular. Commercially available electronic devices can also be used to measure the pulse on the foot or other pulse sites.