Where is the radial artery located for arterial blood gas draws?

• A. In the neck
• B. In the elbow crease
• C. In the groin
• D. On the wrist (thumb side)

Answer: (D)

The radial artery used for arterial blood gas draws is located at the wrist on the thumb side. This artery runs along the lateral aspect of the wrist, just beneath the skin, near the base of the thumb, making it accessible and relatively easy to palpate a strong pulse for puncture. Clinicians often verify adequate hand perfusion before puncture with an Allen test to ensure the ulnar and radial arteries both contribute to blood flow, reducing the risk of hand ischemia if one artery is compromised. The other sites referenced correspond to different arteries: the neck is where the carotid artery lies, the elbow crease is the brachial artery, and the groin is where the femoral artery runs.