Which of the following is not a common pulse point?
a. Femoral artery
b. Subclavian artery
c. Common carotid artery
d. Brachial artery

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of pulse points. Pulse points are locations on the body where an artery is close to the surface and can be compressed against a bone to feel the pulse.
2. Step 2: Review the common pulse points in the human body. These include the radial artery (wrist), brachial artery (arm), carotid artery (neck), femoral artery (groin), popliteal artery (behind the knee), dorsalis pedis artery (top of the foot), and posterior tibial artery (ankle).
3. Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. Identify which arteries are commonly used as pulse points based on their accessibility and proximity to the surface of the body.
4. Step 4: Consider the subclavian artery. This artery is located deep beneath the clavicle (collarbone) and is not easily accessible for checking a pulse, making it an uncommon pulse point.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the subclavian artery is the correct answer as it is not a common pulse point compared to the other options provided.

Key Concepts

Pulse Points

Pulse points are specific locations on the body where arteries are close to the skin's surface, allowing for the detection of the heartbeat. Common pulse points include the radial artery at the wrist, the carotid artery in the neck, and the femoral artery in the groin. Understanding these points is essential for assessing heart rate and circulatory health.

Arterial Locations

Different arteries serve various regions of the body, and their locations determine their accessibility for pulse checks. For instance, the femoral artery is located in the thigh, while the common carotid artery runs along the neck. Recognizing these locations helps in identifying which arteries are typically used for pulse assessment.

Clinical Relevance of Pulse Points

Identifying pulse points is crucial in clinical settings for monitoring vital signs and diagnosing conditions. Certain arteries, like the subclavian artery, are less commonly used for pulse checks compared to others. Understanding which arteries are standard pulse points aids healthcare professionals in effective patient assessment.