Which pulse point is near the ankle?

• A. Carotid
• B. Posterior Tibial
• C. Femoral
• D. Radial

Answer: (B)

In assessing pulses, you look for an artery close to the skin to gauge circulation to the limb. Near the ankle, the pulse you feel is the posterior tibial pulse. It’s found behind the medial malleolus (the inner ankle bone) along the tibial artery as it travels toward the foot. This site is a reliable distal pulse for checking perfusion to the lower leg and foot. By contrast, the carotid pulse is in the neck, the radial pulse at the wrist, and the femoral pulse in the groin, so they aren’t near the ankle.