Which artery should you check for a pulse in an infant?

In infants, the most appropriate artery to check for a pulse is the brachial artery. This artery is located in the upper arm and is easily accessible, particularly in small patients. During a cardiac emergency, assessing the brachial pulse is critical because it provides a reliable indication of circulatory status.

Infants have smaller body structures, and the brachial artery is recommended over other sites because it is less likely to be affected by external factors, such as body position or the limited muscle mass in infants. Furthermore, the carotid artery, while a key site in adults, is generally less practical for pulse checks in infants due to their anatomical differences. The radial artery is often too small and difficult to palpate in infants, while the femoral artery, located in the groin, is not the first choice as it requires repositioning the infant and might be less accessible in emergency situations.

Overall, the brachial artery remains the standard for checking pulses in infants during first aid or resuscitation scenarios, ensuring quick and effective assessment of their heart rate and status.