RN Exam Practice
Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 1655 of 2368

When palpating a client's carotid pulses, what should the nurse do?

  1. Palpate both sides at the same time
  2. Press firmly on both sides to compare strength
  3. Palpate one side at a time
  4. Palpate only after the client holds their breath
Show answer

Correct answer: Palpate one side at a time

Palpating one side at a time avoids decreasing perfusion to the brain.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Cardiovascular Assessment: Objective Assessment. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026