medical Definition of natural 1: having, constituting, or relating to a classification based on features existing in nature 2: of or relating to nature as an object of study and research
The apical pulse is a measure of cardiac function that is completed by placing a stethoscope at the apex of the heart and counting for one minute. It represents the opening and closing of the valves in the heart.
Landmarks on the body can help you determine the apical pulse. It is located at the fifth intercostal space in adults, or the fourth intercostal space in young children and infants. You'll want to count for one full minute to determine a person's heart rate.