A pulse check in an infant involves assessing the presence and quality of their heartbeat, which reflects the effectiveness of their circulatory system. This simple procedure provides immediate insight into an infant’s physiological state. Understanding how to accurately perform this check can guide caregivers in determining if immediate medical attention is required. The method employed for infants differs from adults due to their unique anatomy and smaller size.
Locating the Pulse on an Infant
To accurately locate an infant’s pulse, the preferred site is the brachial artery on the inner upper arm. This artery runs along the inside of the arm, approximately halfway between the infant’s elbow and their shoulder. Positioning the infant comfortably on their back can facilitate access to this area.
Once the infant is positioned, gently extend their arm slightly outward. Place two fingers on the inner aspect of their upper arm. Apply light but firm pressure in the groove between the bicep muscle and the bone, aiming to feel for a rhythmic pulsation. It is important to avoid using the thumb, as it has its own pulse that could be confused with the infant’s.
Maintain this gentle pressure for 5 to 10 seconds to determine if a pulse is present and to assess its rate and strength. The skin of infants is delicate, so excessive force should be avoided to prevent discomfort or injury.
Understanding Why the Brachial Artery is Used
The brachial artery is the preferred location for checking an infant’s pulse due to its accessibility and the consistent strength of its pulse in this age group. Unlike adults, infants have shorter, thicker necks, which makes locating the carotid artery in the neck challenging and potentially unsafe. Applying pressure to an infant’s neck could inadvertently compress other structures, including the trachea, making it unsafe for assessment.
The radial artery, located at the wrist, is often used in older children and adults but is generally not recommended for infants. An infant’s radial pulse can be difficult to palpate due to their very small wrists and the artery’s smaller diameter, making the pulse fainter and harder to detect. The brachial artery, by contrast, is a larger and more superficial vessel in infants, yielding a more reliable and easily detectable pulse.
What to Do After a Pulse Check
After checking an infant’s pulse, observe its rate and quality. A normal pulse rate for a newborn typically ranges from 100 to 160 beats per minute, though this can vary slightly with age and activity level.
If a pulse is detected and appears normal, continue to monitor the infant for any other signs of distress. If no pulse is felt, or if the infant is unresponsive, limp, or not breathing normally, immediate action is necessary. In such situations, call emergency services, such as 911 or your local equivalent, without delay.
While waiting for professional medical help to arrive, follow any instructions provided by the emergency dispatcher. Focus on maintaining the infant’s airway and providing support as advised. Do not attempt complex medical procedures unless specifically trained and instructed to do so by emergency personnel.