In the case of a 1-month-old with a sudden cardiac arrest, which pulse is best to palpate to assess circulatory status?

In a 1-month-old infant, the brachial pulse is the most appropriate pulse to palpate to assess circulatory status during a sudden cardiac arrest. When dealing with young infants, particularly those under the age of 1, the brachial artery is more accessible and is generally recommended for pulse checks. The brachial pulse is located along the inner arm and is easily palpated.

Infants have smaller body sizes and less muscular development, which makes some pulses, like the carotid or radial, more challenging to assess or less reliable compared to the brachial pulse. The femoral pulse could also be an option, but it is typically recommended to first check the brachial pulse, especially in emergency scenarios where quick assessments are necessary. Palpating the brachial pulse allows for a quick evaluation of perfusion and circulation in critical situations, making it the best choice for this age group.