HESI Health Assessment Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

In this scenario, the context of the ulnar pulse being non-palpable while the skin remains warm and capillary refill is normal suggests that although the pulse cannot be felt, the overall perfusion to the hand appears adequate. Normal skin temperature and capillary refill time indicate that blood is still reaching the area effectively. This can sometimes occur due to anatomical variations or positional factors rather than an indication of significant vascular compromise.

It is important to recognize that the absence of palpable pulses does not automatically imply a pathological condition, especially when complemented by other reassuring signs such as warm skin and a quick capillary refill. Therefore, when assessing a patient, a situation like this might be classified as a normal finding, as human anatomy can vary widely, and some individuals may naturally have pulses that are more difficult to palpate.

However, if there were accompanying symptoms of distress or alteration in skin condition, or additional risk factors for vascular disease were present, further evaluation could be warranted. In this case, though, with the parameters presented, considering the findings as normal is the appropriate action.