Which of the following arteries is often palpated to assess a client’s pulse?

The radial artery is commonly palpated to assess a pulse due to its accessibility and proximity to the surface of the skin. It runs along the lateral aspect of the forearm and can be easily located at the wrist, making it a convenient site for pulse assessment. This artery is often used in clinical settings to measure heart rate and rhythm, as it provides an immediate indication of the cardiovascular status of an individual.

The other arteries listed, while they do provide pulse points, are either less commonly used for this purpose or are not as practical for routine evaluations. For example, the jugular artery is primarily used for assessing venous pressure rather than arterial pulse, and the subclavian artery, located deeper in the body, is not readily accessible for normal pulse checks. The femoral artery, though significant and used in specific medical situations, is less often used for basic pulse checks compared to the radial artery, making the radial artery the most appropriate choice for routine assessments.