For infants, where should you check the pulse?

Checking the pulse in infants is recommended to be done at the brachial artery, which is located on the inside of the upper arm between the elbow and shoulder. This method is preferred because infants generally have smaller and more delicate structures, making it more difficult to palpate pulses in other areas, such as the carotid or radial arteries. The brachial artery provides a reliable location to assess circulation and is easily accessible in this age group.

In contrast, the carotid artery, while it can be used in adults, is not advisable for infants as it may be harder to locate and more challenging to assess due to their smaller anatomy. The radial artery, located in the wrist, is typically too narrow and difficult to palpate in infants. Similarly, the femoral artery, found in the groin area, is not commonly used in infants for pulse checks since it can be less convenient and practical for immediate assessments in emergencies. Thus, the brachial artery stands out as the safest and most effective site for pulse checks in infants.