The brachial artery is a significant blood vessel in the arm, delivering oxygen-rich blood to the entire limb, including the elbow, forearm, and hand. Understanding how to locate this artery is useful for various health assessments and in certain first aid situations.
Common Reasons to Find the Brachial Artery
Locating the brachial artery serves several important practical purposes. It is commonly used during blood pressure measurement, where a cuff is placed around the upper arm to monitor blood flow and determine systolic and diastolic pressures. Additionally, finding the brachial artery allows for checking a pulse, especially when the radial pulse at the wrist is difficult to find or in emergency situations. This method is also used for assessing circulation in infants, especially where other pulse points can be challenging to locate. In first aid, knowing how to locate this artery can assist in applying pressure to control bleeding in the arm.
Where to Locate the Brachial Artery
The brachial artery is positioned along the inner side of the upper arm. It runs down the arm, lying between the biceps and triceps muscles, close to the humerus bone. It becomes most accessible for palpation in the antecubital fossa, the crease at the front of the elbow. At this point, the artery is situated on the inner side, medial to the biceps tendon.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Brachial Artery
To begin, position the arm slightly extended with the palm facing upward. Ensuring the person is seated or lying comfortably can help relax the arm muscles, making the artery easier to find. This posture helps to open up the antecubital fossa, the natural indentation at the front of the elbow.
Next, identify the landmark at the inner crease of the elbow. Feel for the prominent tendon of the biceps muscle in the elbow crease. The brachial artery will be located just medial to this tendon.
Use the pads of your index and middle fingers to gently press in the area about 2-3 centimeters above the elbow crease and approximately 2 centimeters medial to the bicep tendon. Avoid using your thumb, as it has its own pulse that could be confusing. Apply light pressure initially, gradually increasing it slightly if needed, until you feel a rhythmic throb beneath your fingertips.
It may take a few seconds to detect the pulse, so patience is helpful. If you have difficulty, try adjusting the angle of your fingers or moving them slightly around the immediate area. Relaxing the arm further or trying the other arm might also make the pulse more apparent. Remember to avoid pressing too hard or for an extended period, as this technique is for informational purposes.