Where is the pulse most commonly checked?

The radial pulse is most commonly checked because it is easily accessible and provides a reliable indication of heart rate. Located on the wrist's thumb side, the radial artery is near the surface of the skin, allowing for easy palpation. This makes it a practical choice for both healthcare professionals and caregivers when monitoring a person's heart rate in various settings, including at home, in a clinic, or during emergency situations.

In contrast, while other locations for checking the pulse such as the brachial, carotid, and femoral are indeed valid, they are often used in more specific situations. For instance, the brachial pulse is typically assessed in infants or during certain medical procedures, the carotid pulse is checked in emergencies for assessing circulation to the brain, and the femoral pulse may be used in cases of significant blood loss or in trauma situations. The frequency with which the radial pulse is used reflects its practicality and ease of access in routine assessments.