National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Practice Exam

What is the radial pulse?

1. A pulse obtained from the chest area

2. A pulse measured at the neck

3. A pulse obtained on the forearm, just below the wrist

4. A pulse taken at the temple of the head

The correct answer is: A pulse obtained on the forearm, just below the wrist

The radial pulse refers to the pulse that can be felt at the radial artery, which is located on the forearm, just below the wrist on the thumb side. This area is easily accessible and allows for straightforward measurement of heart rate. The radial pulse is commonly used in both clinical settings and fitness assessments because it provides a quick and non-invasive way to gauge the patient's or client's heart rate. In contrast, the pulse obtained from the chest area generally refers to the apical pulse, which is assessed over the heart itself. The pulse measured at the neck relates to the carotid artery, which is a different site altogether. The pulse taken at the temple is associated with the superficial temporal artery, not the radial artery. Understanding these distinctions is important for accurate assessment and monitoring of cardiovascular health.