Which artery should be checked for pulse in infants during CPR?

When performing CPR on infants, the brachial artery is the recommended site for checking the pulse. This is due to the anatomical and physiological characteristics of infants. The brachial artery is located on the inside of the upper arm and is more accessible and easier to palpate in infants compared to other pulse points.

In infants, the carotid artery, which is often used in adults, is deeper beneath the neck's structures and may be more difficult to assess accurately. The radial artery, located at the wrist, is also generally less developed and can be challenging to locate in very young children. While the femoral artery is a central artery in the leg, it is not typically used for pulse checks in infants due to its more complex location and the tendency to use pulses higher in the body when assessing circulation during CPR.

Using the brachial artery allows lifeguards and rescuers to quickly and effectively evaluate the infant’s circulation, which is crucial in an emergency scenario. This knowledge is vital for providing effective care during CPR situations.