The site of pulse in the neck is called?

Appeared in: AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Explanation

The pulse felt on the side of the neck is the carotid pulse.
It is palpated over the carotid artery, which is a major artery supplying blood to the brain.
As shown in the image, it is located in the groove between the windpipe (trachea) and the large sternocleidomastoid muscle.
This site is easily accessible and is used to quickly assess circulation, especially in emergencies.

Option A: The temporal pulse is located on the side of the head, over the temporal bone.
Option B: The radial pulse is located at the wrist, on the thumb side.
Option D: The popliteal pulse is located in the fossa (hollow) behind the knee.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of major arterial pulse points as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Assessing the carotid pulse is a critical skill in emergencies, such as when a person is unresponsive, to quickly check for signs of circulation before starting CPR.
Because the carotid artery is a central artery, it remains palpable longer than peripheral pulses (like the radial) during shock or low blood pressure states, making it a more reliable indicator of cardiac activity in critically ill patients.
What if? If a patient has known carotid artery disease (atherosclerosis), palpating this pulse should be done very gently and only one side at a time. Applying excessive pressure or palpating both sides simultaneously can dislodge a plaque (leading to a stroke) or stimulate the vagus nerve, causing a dangerous drop in heart rate and blood pressure (vasovagal syncope).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key anatomical location mentioned in the question: 'neck'.
Second, recall the names and locations of the major pulse points taught in nursing fundamentals.
Third, evaluate the given options: Temporal (head), Radial (wrist), Carotid (neck), and Popliteal (behind the knee).
Fourth, match the location 'neck' with the corresponding anatomical term, which is 'Carotid'.
The image provided serves as a visual confirmation, showing the correct placement of fingers on the side of the neck to palpate the carotid artery.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 3 p. 18-20

Practise the full AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.