Therapeutics – Cardiovascular System Practice Test

Which arterial pulse is located at the top of the foot?

Carotid Dorsalis pedis Posterior tibial Radial

Correct Answer:

Dorsalis pedis

Explanation:

Locating arterial pulses hinges on matching the pulse to a named artery based on its surface course. The pulse you feel on the top of the foot comes from the dorsalis pedis artery, a continuation of the anterior tibial artery as it crosses the ankle and travels along the dorsum of the foot toward the toes. It’s typically palpated on the dorsum, near the midfoot and just lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon. This site is commonly used to assess peripheral circulation. If it’s not palpable, the posterior tibial pulse behind the medial malleolus can be an alternative. The carotid pulse is in the neck, the radial pulse is at the wrist, and the posterior tibial pulse is behind the ankle, not on the top of the foot.

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