New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

When auscultating blood pressure in the upper extremity, where should you place the diaphragm of the stethoscope?

1. Radial artery

2. Apical artery

3. Femoral artery

4. Brachial artery

The correct answer is: Brachial artery

The diaphragm of the stethoscope should be placed over the brachial artery when auscultating blood pressure in the upper extremity. The brachial artery, located in the upper arm near the elbow, is the appropriate site for measuring blood pressure because it provides a clear sound transmission of the blood flow, which is crucial for accurately determining systolic and diastolic pressures. This method ensures that the sounds of Korotkoff are heard distinctly, allowing the practitioner to observe the points at which these sounds begin and end, indicating the blood pressure readings. The other options, although associated with the circulatory system, are not suitable for blood pressure measurements in the way the brachial artery is. The radial artery, located at the wrist, is more commonly used for measuring pulse rather than blood pressure. The apical artery refers to the apex of the heart, and while it can be auscultated, it is not used for blood pressure readings. The femoral artery is located in the thigh and is typically used in situations outside of routine blood pressure measurement, often in emergency situations or where upper limb access is not possible.