Which pulses are considered central pulses?

Central pulses are those that are located closer to the heart and are typically used to assess the circulatory status of a patient. They reflect the blood flow that is more representative of the central circulation and are important in emergencies to evaluate perfusion and blood pressure.

The carotid and femoral pulses are classified as central pulses because the carotid pulse is found in the neck, providing immediate access to the central circulation, while the femoral pulse is located in the groin area and also reflects the hemodynamic status of the body by representing blood flow from the heart to the lower extremities.

In contrast, the radial and brachial pulses are considered peripheral pulses. These are located in the arms and are further away from the heart, thus providing less immediate information about central blood flow. Similarly, the posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis pulses are located in the feet and lower legs, also representing peripheral circulation. The facial and temporal pulses, located in the face and side of the head respectively, fall into the category of superficial or peripheral pulses.

Therefore, the correct choice clearly identifies central pulses as those that are closest to the heart, which in this case are the carotid and femoral pulses.