Ace the JBL Trauma Challenge 2025 – Master the Skills to Save Lives!

Question: 1 / 400

When assessing distal circulation in a patient with a femur injury, which pulse should you palpate?

Popliteal pulse

Dorsalis pedis pulse

When assessing distal circulation in a patient with a femur injury, palpating the dorsalis pedis pulse is appropriate because it provides insight into the blood flow to the lower extremity. The dorsalis pedis pulse is located on the top of the foot and is indicative of circulatory status beyond the injury site.

While the popliteal pulse is another viable pulse to assess within the leg, it is more proximal and may not effectively reflect circulation to the foot and toes. The femoral pulse is located in the thigh and is even more proximal, providing limited information about distal perfusion. The radial pulse, found at the wrist, is not relevant in assessing the circulation of the lower extremities.

Hence, the dorsalis pedis pulse is the best choice for evaluating the distal circulatory status in an individual with a femur injury, as it can help determine whether blood flow is adequate beyond the injury site.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Femoral pulse

Radial pulse

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy