[header] How to document pulses [title] Mark the absence of a pulse as " 0 ". [step] Some patients will not have a pulse, which is an indicator the patient is deceased or needs immediate medical attention. During a medical emergency, follow life support guidelines. 
Once the individual is under the care of an emergency medical team, document the absences of a pulse as a " 0, " meaning no pulse. [title] Write " 1 " for a faint pulse.