The nurse assesses a client’s radial pulse and notes the pulse is 50 beats/minute. Which action should the nurse take next?

Choice A reason: When the radial pulse is slow or irregular, the nurse should obtain the apical heart rate for one full minute. This provides the most accurate measure of cardiac rhythm and rate, ensuring that bradycardia is confirmed before further action. Choice B reason: Pulsus paradoxus is assessed in conditions such as cardiac tamponade or severe asthma, not as a routine follow-up for bradycardia. It is not the immediate next step here. Choice C reason: Documentation is important, but before documenting, the nurse must validate the finding with a more accurate apical pulse measurement. Choice D reason: Notifying the healthcare provider may be necessary if bradycardia is confirmed and symptomatic, but the immediate next step is to verify the finding with an apical pulse.