Which pulse assessment is primarily used for infants?

The brachial pulse is the primary pulse assessment used for infants because it is more easily accessible and reliable compared to other pulse sites. In infants, especially when they are very young or during emergencies, the brachial artery, which is located on the inside of the upper arm, provides a consistent and palpable pulse point.

In contrast, other pulse sites may not be as reliable during an infant's early developmental stages. For example, the carotid pulse, while accessible, can be harder to find accurately on a smaller body. The radial pulse is typically used for older children and adults since the radius bone is more prominent and easier to palpate in those demographics. Lastly, the temporal pulse, located on the side of the head, is not routinely used for assessing circulation in infants. Thus, the brachial pulse remains the favored choice for its accessibility and reliability when evaluating the circulatory status of infants.