The apical pulse is a measure of the heart rate that is taken by palpating the apex of the heart, which is located at the bottom of the rib cage, slightly to the left of center. It is a simple and non-invasive procedure that can be performed by anyone with a little bit of training.
The apical pulse is important because it can provide information about the heart’s rate and rhythm. A normal apical pulse rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. A pulse that is too fast or too slow can be a sign of a heart condition.