Where do you check an infant's pulse?

When assessing an infant's pulse, the brachial artery is the most appropriate location. This artery is located on the inner side of the upper arm, between the elbow and the shoulder. It is easily accessible and allows for accurate monitoring of the pulse in infants, who have smaller and less developed vascular structures compared to adults. As a result, checking the pulse at the brachial artery can provide a reliable indication of the infant's circulatory status.

The carotid artery, while commonly used in adults, is more difficult to palpate in infants due to their smaller necks and the high risk of applying too much pressure that could compromise airflow. The femoral artery, located in the groin, is also a potential pulse site, but it is less commonly used for routine assessments in infants compared to the brachial artery. The radial artery, found at the wrist, is typically not assessed in infants because it is often too faint to detect accurately. Thus, the brachial artery stands out as the recommended site for measuring an infant’s pulse effectively.