Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

A newborn's pulse is most accurately measured at which of the following sites?

1. Radial Pulse

2. Carotid Pulse

3. Brachial Pulse

4. Over the apex of the heart

The correct answer is: Over the apex of the heart

When measuring a newborn's pulse, assessing it over the apex of the heart is particularly effective due to the anatomical position of the heart in this age group. The apex of the heart is located at the left fourth or fifth intercostal space, which is shallow in infants and allows for a more reliable and direct measurement of the heart rate. This method provides a clear indication of the newborn's heart rhythm and beats, which is crucial for assessing their cardiovascular health. While other sites such as the radial artery, carotid artery, or brachial artery can be used for pulse measurement, they may not offer the same level of accuracy and consistency in newborns. The radial pulse can be challenging to palpate in very young patients due to their smaller size, and the carotid pulse, while more accessible, can be uncomfortable due to positioning. Brachial pulse access is more common in infants, yet measuring over the apex remains the most direct way to assess heart activity accurately.