Which site is used to check for a pulse on an infant?

Which site is used to check for a pulse on an infant?

• A. Carotid artery in the neck
• B. Brachial artery in the inner arm
• C. Radial artery at the wrist
• D. Femoral artery in the thigh

Answer: (B)

The brachial artery, located in the inner arm, is the appropriate site for checking a pulse on an infant. This is because the brachial artery is more accessible and can be palpated easily in this age group. Infants have smaller and less developed circulatory systems, which makes the brachial artery a more reliable and safer choice to assess their pulse during emergency situations. The carotid artery, while commonly used in adults, is not suitable for infants due to the risk of inadvertently compressing the airway or causing injury. The radial artery at the wrist is often too small and difficult to feel in infants, making it an impractical option for pulse checks. Similarly, the femoral artery, which is used in some situations for adults, may not be as effective or safe for infants given their anatomical differences and the importance of minimizing any potential harm during assessment. Thus, the brachial artery remains the standard site for checking a pulse in young children.

The brachial artery, located in the inner arm, is the appropriate site for checking a pulse on an infant. This is because the brachial artery is more accessible and can be palpated easily in this age group. Infants have smaller and less developed circulatory systems, which makes the brachial artery a more reliable and safer choice to assess their pulse during emergency situations.

The carotid artery, while commonly used in adults, is not suitable for infants due to the risk of inadvertently compressing the airway or causing injury. The radial artery at the wrist is often too small and difficult to feel in infants, making it an impractical option for pulse checks. Similarly, the femoral artery, which is used in some situations for adults, may not be as effective or safe for infants given their anatomical differences and the importance of minimizing any potential harm during assessment. Thus, the brachial artery remains the standard site for checking a pulse in young children.