When taking a pulse at the wrist, which artery is being used?

When taking a pulse at the wrist, the artery that is being assessed is the radial artery. This artery is located on the thumb side of the wrist and is accessible for palpation, making it a common site for measuring heart rate. The radial artery is a continuation of the brachial artery and is a key vessel for supplying blood to the forearm and hand.

Measuring the pulse at the radial artery is preferred in many situations because it is relatively superficial and easy to locate, allowing for accurate monitoring of the heart rate. Additionally, the radial pulse reflects the overall circulatory status of the body, making it a useful measurement in both fitness and clinical settings.