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5. Apical Pulse vs Peripheral Pulses

The apical pulse lies on the left side of the chest, between the fifth and sixth rib. This is where the apex of the heart sits and the point of maximal impulse. Listening to the apical pulse with a stethoscope is an effective way to assess the heart, but examining the peripheral pulses is very useful, too. Listening to the carotid or femoral pulse can reveal partial obstruction of the nearby vessels.

apical apex heart PeopleImages / Getty Images

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