Which pulse is assessed by palpating the inner aspect of the ankle, below the medial malleolus?

Which pulse is assessed by palpating the inner aspect of the ankle, below the medial malleolus?

• A. Femoral pulse
• B. Brachial pulse
• C. Dorsalis pedis pulse
• D. Posterior tibial pulse

Answer: (D)

The pulse located by palpating the inner aspect of the ankle, just below the medial malleolus, is the posterior tibial pulse. This artery runs along the back of the leg and can be easily accessed in this area to assess circulation in the foot and leg. When taking this pulse, the clinician uses their fingertips to gently press against the area where the posterior tibial artery passes, allowing for an evaluation of its strength and rhythm, which can provide important information about the vascular status of the lower extremity. The other pulse points do not correspond to this anatomical location. For instance, the femoral pulse is found in the groin area, the brachial pulse is located in the upper arm, and the dorsalis pedis pulse is assessed on the top of the foot, which is considerably different from the posterior tibial pulse location. Understanding the anatomical landmarks for these pulses is critical for effective physical assessment.

The pulse located by palpating the inner aspect of the ankle, just below the medial malleolus, is the posterior tibial pulse. This artery runs along the back of the leg and can be easily accessed in this area to assess circulation in the foot and leg.

When taking this pulse, the clinician uses their fingertips to gently press against the area where the posterior tibial artery passes, allowing for an evaluation of its strength and rhythm, which can provide important information about the vascular status of the lower extremity.

The other pulse points do not correspond to this anatomical location. For instance, the femoral pulse is found in the groin area, the brachial pulse is located in the upper arm, and the dorsalis pedis pulse is assessed on the top of the foot, which is considerably different from the posterior tibial pulse location. Understanding the anatomical landmarks for these pulses is critical for effective physical assessment.