Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

Which pulse can be palpated in the antecubital space?

1. Apical

2. Brachial

3. Carotid

4. Radial

The correct answer is: Brachial

The pulse that can be palpated in the antecubital space is the brachial pulse. This area is located at the front of the elbow, which is where the brachial artery runs close to the surface, making it accessible for palpation. The brachial pulse is typically assessed in situations such as measuring blood pressure or in emergency scenarios where assessing circulation in the arm is necessary. The apical pulse is located at the apex of the heart and is usually measured at the fifth intercostal space; it cannot be palpated in the antecubital space. The carotid pulse is found along the neck and is not accessible in the antecubital area. The radial pulse is located at the wrist, where the radial artery runs close to the bone, and it is also not located in the antecubital space. Thus, the brachial pulse is the only correct choice for this specific location.