You are palpating bilateral pedal pulses and cannot feel one of the pulses. The feet are equally warm. You find that both great toes are pink, with a capillary refill within 2 seconds. Which of the following statements is correct?
A) Immediate emergency surgery is indicated.
B) Pedal pulses are not always palpable.
C) Unilateral pulses are never normal.
D) Venogram studies will be needed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dorsalis pedis and posterior tibia pulses may be difficult to palpate or may not be palpable in some well persons. The feet are warm and capillary refill is less than 2 seconds; there is adequate circulation to the feet. Immediate emergency surgery is not indicated. Unilateral pulses may be normal. Venogram studies will not be needed.

You Are Palpating Bilateral Pedal Pulses and Cannot Feel One