Which digits are recommended for locating the radial pulse?

• A. Thumb only
• B. Index and middle fingers only
• C. Ring finger only
• D. Two or three fingers (not the thumb)

Answer: (D)

When locating a radial pulse, use two or three fingers (not the thumb) to feel for the heartbeat on the thumb side of the wrist. The reason the thumb isn’t used is that the thumb has its own pulse, which can be mistaken for the patient’s pulse and throw off the count. Placing the pads of the index and middle fingers (and sometimes the ring finger) over the radial artery with light, steady pressure lets you detect the pulse accurately without occluding the artery. If you don’t feel anything, try adjusting pressure or moving slightly along the wrist, and remember to count beats for a standard time period to determine rate.