Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What is the recommended location to assess a pulse in an unresponsive patient?

1. Carotid artery

2. Brachial artery

3. Femoral artery

4. Radial artery

The correct answer is: Brachial artery

The appropriate location to assess a pulse in an unresponsive patient is the carotid artery. This artery is located on either side of the neck, making it easily accessible for healthcare providers. In emergency situations, especially when a patient is unresponsive, checking for a pulse at the carotid site is critical because it allows for immediate assessment of the patient's circulatory status. Assessing the carotid pulse is part of the primary survey during Basic Life Support, and it is recommended due to its reliability in adults. The carotid artery provides a strong pulse, making it easier to detect among other peripheral pulses. Using this location helps responders quickly determine if the heart is still effectively circulating blood to vital organs, which is essential for deciding on further interventions such as initiating CPR or calling for emergency help. Other sites like the brachial artery, femoral artery, or radial artery could be used in specific contexts, but they may not be as practical or reliable in assessing an unresponsive adult. The brachial artery is sometimes used in infants, while the radial artery is less reliable when the patient is unresponsive due to its more peripheral location.