As Pulse nears its climax in Episode 10, viewers are left with more questions than answers. Zoe Robyn’s high-stakes medical drama reveals that Xander’s NDA wasn’t to hide an office affair, but to conceal a fatal mistake involving a patient during his med school days. With Nia in critical condition, Camila considering departure, and Danny’s job on the line, the tension is dialed all the way up heading into the finale.
The episode opens with a dramatic twist: a hostile former patient, Glen, returns to the hospital following a serious car accident involving his wife and baby. Despite past friction, Danny steps up with compassion, calming Glen and saving Catherine’s life with help from Dr. Cruz. Harper’s earlier diagnosis for the baby is validated, and treatment begins. These developments show Danny’s growth as both a physician and a person.
Xander’s Past Unravels: Confession, Apology, and a New Beginning for Danny and Xander
Flashbacks to Xander’s time at Kennedy Hospital reveal that he accidentally killed a patient, Julio, by performing a risky procedure without imaging, pressured by an arrogant superior. The trauma resurfaces when Catherine begins to bleed during surgery, and Xander freezes. Danny intervenes, saving both Catherine and Xander, who later breaks down and confesses everything to her, including how his mother orchestrated the cover-up.
Pulse (Photo: MGM Television)Xander and Danny finally have a raw, honest conversation. He apologizes for dismissing her boundaries and acknowledges the power imbalance their relationship created. Moved by his vulnerability, Danny admits she still loves him too, proposing a possible future together—if she loses her job. But that thought is quickly interrupted when Cruz informs Danny she’s her top pick for chief resident next year.
Sophie Confronts Cole, Camila Stays, Sam’s Feelings for Danny Remain, Patrick’s Power Shift
Other characters also find clarity. Sophie stands up to the toxic Cole, calling out his mistreatment, and he surprisingly owns up to it. Camila overhears and is impressed by Sophie’s newfound voice. Cruz, seeing Camila’s worth, persuades her to stay, affirming her value and hard work. Meanwhile, Cole’s actions put him in hot water with Cruz as he’s barred from seeing Nia, highlighting his professional and emotional crisis.
At the heart of the finale are deep, unspoken feelings. Sam hides his love for Danny, brushing off Harper’s prodding, while Sophie’s connection with Camila seems promising—until Camila’s fiancée appears, leaving Sophie embarrassed. Their storyline ends unresolved, adding emotional complexity and possible future arcs. Meanwhile, professional politics rear their head again as the stern Dr. Patrick Sanchez is announced as the new ER head.
In a final twist, Patrick overrides Cruz’s decision and names Sam as chief resident instead of Danny. While disappointed, Danny keeps her job thanks to Cruz’s loyalty. The finale ends with Xander deciding to come clean to the board, risking his career to do the right thing, inspired by Danny’s integrity. As Danny dives into the ocean, the show closes on a symbolic note of peace, self-acceptance, and renewal—just as a new emergency awaits at Maguire.
