A nurse is preparing to measure an infant's vital signs. Which sites should the nurse use to assess a heart rate?

A. Apex of the heart: The apical pulse is the most accurate site for measuring heart rate in infants, especially those under 2 years old. It allows the nurse to auscultate directly over the heart with a stethoscope for a full minute, capturing the true rate and rhythm, including any irregularities. B. Radial artery: The radial pulse is not a reliable site in infants due to their small and less-developed peripheral arteries. It can be difficult to palpate and may give an inaccurate heart rate, especially if the infant is active or crying. C. Carotid artery: The carotid artery is typically avoided in infants for routine assessment due to the risk of applying too much pressure, which can impair cerebral blood flow. It's primarily used in emergencies to check for circulation. D. Brachial artery: The brachial artery is used for palpation during CPR or in the absence of a stethoscope, but it is not as accurate as the apical site for assessing heart rate. It's better for checking circulation than heart rhythm or rate.