In an infant, the heart rate is best detected by either palpating the brachial artery or:
A) auscultating the carotid pulse.
B) palpating the femoral pulse.
C) palpating the carotid pulse.
D) auscultating the apical pulse.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most accurate method for determining an infant's heart rate is to auscultate the apical pulse (counting heartbeats through a stethoscope placed on the chest over the heart). Palpating the brachial or femoral artery may be used when auscultation is not possible, but it is less accurate. Palpating the carotid pulse is not recommended in infants due to the risk of applying too much pressure on the neck.

In an Infant, the Heart Rate Is Best Detected by Either