Which location is appropriate for checking a pulse on an infant?

The brachial artery is the most appropriate location for checking a pulse on an infant due to its accessibility and reliability in this age group. Infants have smaller limbs and less-developed vascular systems compared to older children and adults. The brachial artery is located in the upper arm, and it is closer to the heart, making it a good site for pulse assessment.

In practice, checking the pulse on an infant typically involves using gentle pressure to feel for the pulse in the brachial artery, which is usually located along the inner aspect of the arm, between the shoulder and the elbow. This location provides a clear and strong pulse that can be easily palpated in most infants.

Other pulse locations, such as the carotid artery and femoral artery, may not be as reliable in infants due to their smaller size and the position of the vessels. The radial artery, located at the wrist, is generally not used for infants because it can be even more challenging to palpate given the smaller circumference of their arms.