Where can the brachial pulse be palpated?

• A. On the lateral side of the elbow
• B. On the lateral side of the wrist
• C. On the dorsal surface of the hand
• D. On the medial aspect of the antecubital fossa

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the anatomy of the brachial artery: The brachial artery is a major blood vessel of the upper arm that supplies blood to the arm and hand. It runs along the medial side of the arm and transitions into the antecubital fossa, which is the triangular area on the anterior side of the elbow.
2. Learn the definition of 'palpation': Palpation refers to the act of feeling or examining a part of the body by touch, often to detect the presence of a pulse or other physical characteristics.
3. Identify the location of the antecubital fossa: The antecubital fossa is located on the anterior (front) side of the elbow joint. The medial aspect refers to the side closer to the midline of the body.
4. Determine the correct location for palpating the brachial pulse: The brachial pulse can be palpated by placing your fingers on the medial aspect of the antecubital fossa, where the brachial artery is superficial and close to the skin.
5. Rule out the incorrect options: The lateral side of the elbow, lateral side of the wrist, and dorsal surface of the hand are not locations where the brachial artery is accessible for palpation. These areas correspond to other arteries, such as the radial artery (lateral wrist) or are not suitable for pulse detection.