In assessing a patient for peripheral vascular disease in the arms, which pulse locations are crucial to examine?

When assessing a patient for peripheral vascular disease specifically in the arms, it is essential to examine the radial and brachial pulses. These two locations provide critical information about the blood flow and vascular health of the upper extremities.

The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is easily accessible and reflects the perfusion to the hand. The brachial pulse, found in the antecubital fossa, corresponds to the blood flow in the upper arm and can give insight into proximal vascular issues that may affect the entire arm.

Evaluating these pulses allows healthcare providers to detect any abnormalities in circulation, which can be indicative of peripheral vascular disease. In this context, the other options focus on different anatomical areas; for example, the femoral and popliteal pulses are important for assessing vascular issues in the lower extremities, while the dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses are similarly critical for the feet. The carotid pulse assesses the blood flow to the head and neck, which, while essential in cardiovascular assessments, does not provide direct information about the arms. Therefore, the focus on the radial and brachial pulses is paramount in evaluating arm circulation specifically.