Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Which pulse location is commonly palpated during CPR?

1. Radial

2. Carotid

3. Femoral

4. Brachial

The correct answer is: Carotid

The carotid pulse is the most appropriate location to palpate during CPR because it is centrally located and provides a clear indication of blood circulation to the brain. When someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, checking the carotid pulse quickly can help determine if there is still adequate blood flow and whether to initiate CPR. In an emergency situation, the carotid artery is accessible and can be felt easily on either side of the neck. This is crucial when assessing a patient's vital signs quickly, as it helps determine the need for immediate chest compressions. The reliability of the carotid pulse in such scenarios is significant because it can indicate central perfusion and guide the rescuer's next steps effectively. Other pulse sites, such as the radial, femoral, or brachial, are less effective in emergencies due to their location or the difficulty in palpating them compared to the carotid pulse. In situations where immediate action is required, the emphasis is on ensuring that blood flow is sufficient to the brain, making the carotid pulse the priority for assessment in CPR.