Question

How do you assess for radio-radial delay?

Option 1: Palpate the radial pulse while simultaneously auscultating the brachial artery.

Option 2: Observe for pulsations in the radio-ulnar joint.

Option 3: Compress the radial artery and check for delayed rebound.

Option 4: Measure blood pressure in both arms simultaneously.

Answer 1

To assess for a radio-radial delay, palpating the radial pulse while simultaneously auscultating the brachial artery is appropriate, as is measuring blood pressure in both arms simultaneously.

Step-by-step explanation:

To assess for a radio-radial delay, one must use a method that enables comparison of blood flow and pressure between the two radial arteries, typically at the wrists. The appropriate method from the provided options would be Option 1: Palpate the radial pulse while simultaneously auscultating the brachial artery. This technique allows for detecting differences in the timing of the pulse wave between the two arteries, which may indicate the presence of vascular disease or obstruction. Option 4, measuring blood pressure in both arms simultaneously, is also a viable method for assessing for delays or discrepancies in arm blood pressure that could suggest a hemodynamic significance to a radio-radial delay. Options 2 and 3 are not standard procedures for assessing radio-radial delay and do not provide reliable information for this assessment.