Fundamentals of Nursing Q 394

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Which pulse should the nurse palpate during rapid assessment of an unconscious male adult?

  

     A. Radial

     B. Brachial

     C. Femoral

     D. Carotid

    

    

Correct Answer: D. Carotid

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During a rapid assessment, the nurse’s first priority is to check the patient’s vital functions by assessing his airway, breathing, and circulation. To check a patient’s circulation, the nurse must assess his heart and vascular network function. This is done by checking his skin color, temperature, mental status and, most importantly, his pulse. The nurse should use the carotid artery to check a patient’s circulation.

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Option A: In a patient with circulatory problems or a history of compromised circulation, the radial pulse may not be palpable. Examiners frequently evaluate the radial artery during a routine examination of adults, due to the unobtrusive position required to palpate it and its easy accessibility in various types of clothing. Like other distal peripheral pulses (such as those in the feet) it also may be quicker to show signs of pathology.

Option B: The brachial pulse is palpated during rapid assessment of an infant. The brachial artery is often the site of evaluation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation of infants. It is palpated proximal to the elbow between the medial epicondyle of the humerus and the distal biceps tendon.

Option C: The femoral pulse may be the most sensitive in assessing for septic shock and is routinely checked during resuscitation. It is palpated distally to the inguinal ligament at a point less than halfway from the pubis to the anterior superior iliac spine.

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