At the end of a dialysis session, which finding should be reported to the nurse?

• A. A pulse rate of 120 beats per minute
• B. A pulse rate of 60 beats per minute
• C. A pulse rate of 75 beats per minute
• D. A pulse rate of 55 beats per minute

Answer: (D)

After dialysis, staying alert to vital signs helps catch problems early, especially changes in heart rate that could affect perfusion. A pulse that is too low is a red flag because it can indicate bradycardia, which may reflect underlying issues with electrolyte balance, conduction problems, or the body’s response to fluid removal. A pulse of 55 beats per minute is below the normal resting range (about 60–100 bpm) and warrants immediate nurse assessment to determine if intervention is needed and to rule out serious causes. The other readings are less concerning in this moment: a pulse of 120 can occur with anxiety or pain and may be monitored, 60 is at the lower edge of normal, and 75 is normal.