Explain what is pulse ?

Examination of peripheral pulses as a very important step in cardiovascular examination. A normal pulse has upstroke (anacrotic limb) followed by a down stroke (dicrotic limb). The classical method of examination of radial pulse by three finger method is good for rate, rhythm and condition of arterial wall but character of pulse is better appreciated by palpating brachial or better carotid artery by thumb. Examination of pulse in all peripheral arteries is strongly recommended as simple demonstration of radio/brachio-femoral delay will make a diagnosis of Coarctation of. Aorta which otherwise may be completely missed. An exaggerated pulsation at the root of neck in an young individual on inspection denote a high stoke volume (aertic regurgition, PDA and Coarctation of Aorta).

Figure: Normal pulse waveform correlation with PCG/ECG