Before counting the radial pulse, what preparatory step should you perform?

• A. Wipe the wrist with alcohol
• B. Wash your hands
• C. Apply lotion to hands
• D. Check blood pressure

Answer: (B)

Hand hygiene before touching the patient is the essential preparatory step. Washing your hands removes germs and protects both you and the patient, ensuring a safe, accurate pulse assessment. After hands are clean, locate the radial artery on the inside of the wrist and count the beats for a full minute (or 30 seconds and double the count). The other options aren’t necessary before counting a pulse: wiping the wrist with alcohol isn’t required, applying lotion can make palpation more difficult, and checking blood pressure is a separate procedure.