A complete cardiovascular assessment addresses each of the following each visit, scaled to the patient's diagnosis and stability:
Heart rate and rhythm — rate, regularity, and apical pulse for a full minute when the rhythm is irregular, with apical–radial deficit noted if present.
Heart sounds — S1 and S2; presence of S3 or S4, murmurs, or a rub.
Blood pressure against the patient-specific ordered parameters, with orthostatic measurements when symptoms or fall risk are present.
Jugular venous distension / estimated venous pressure at 30–45°.
Peripheral perfusion — pulse amplitude and symmetry (radial, dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial), capillary refill, and extremity temperature and color.
Peripheral edema — location, grade, symmetry, and whether pitting.
Volume status — daily-weight trend versus baseline and target/dry weight, and fluid-balance signals.
Symptom screen — chest pain or pressure, palpitations, dyspnea, orthopnea, PND, dizziness, syncope, claudication, and change in activity tolerance.
