Wash your hands and have the person rest for 5 minutes
Use the index and middle fingers, not the thumb
Place the fingers on the wrist below the thumb side or on the side of the neck
Press gently until you feel the pulse
Count the beats for 30 seconds and multiply by 2
Count for a full 60 seconds if the pulse is irregular
Compare the pulse rate with the person’s age and usual resting rate
Check for fever signs such as hot skin, chills, sweating, or flushed face
Repeat the pulse check after rest if the person has been active
Seek medical help if the pulse is very fast, very slow, irregular, or the person feels unwell