Final answer:
The apical pulse, also known as the point of maximal impulse (PMI), is the pulsation felt at the apex of the heart and indicates the heart rate. It can be measured manually by palpating an artery close to the body surface. The pulse strength provides clues to the strength of ventricular contraction and cardiac output.
Step-by-step explanation:
The apical pulse, also known as the point of maximal impulse (PMI), refers to the pulsation felt at the apex of the heart. It is an indicator of the heart rate.
The pulse can be palpated manually by placing the tips of the fingers across an artery close to the body surface. Common sites to find a pulse include the radial artery in the wrist, the common carotid artery in the neck, and other arterial locations in the body.
The pulse strength indicates the strength of ventricular contraction and cardiac output, and it is recorded as beats per minute. A high or irregular pulse rate can sometimes signify a heart condition.