In responsive patients older than 1 year, palpate the pulse at the _____ artery.

In responsive patients older than 1 year, palpate the pulse at the _____ artery.

• A. Carotid
• B. Brachial
• C. Femoral
• D. Radial

Answer: (D)

The radial artery at the wrist is the best site to assess in a responsive patient older than one year. It’s easily accessible, quick to palpate, and provides a good indication of peripheral perfusion and heart rate without turning or disturbing the patient. The carotid artery is typically used when the patient is unresponsive or during CPR; the brachial site is mainly for infants, and the femoral site is a deeper location not ideal for quick checks in a cooperative patient. So, checking the radial pulse gives a practical, reliable read on circulation in this age group.

The radial artery at the wrist is the best site to assess in a responsive patient older than one year. It’s easily accessible, quick to palpate, and provides a good indication of peripheral perfusion and heart rate without turning or disturbing the patient. The carotid artery is typically used when the patient is unresponsive or during CPR; the brachial site is mainly for infants, and the femoral site is a deeper location not ideal for quick checks in a cooperative patient. So, checking the radial pulse gives a practical, reliable read on circulation in this age group.