Which method should NOT be used to take a pulse?

The correct answer is that the thumbs should not be used to take a pulse. When measuring pulse, it is essential to use fingers that have a heightened sensitivity to detect the beat of the heart clearly.

Using the thumb can be problematic because it has its own pulse, which can interfere with accurate measurement. The thumb's pulse may lead to confusion or misinterpretation, as it can be felt alongside the pulse of the patient, making it difficult to gauge the actual heartbeat. Therefore, healthcare professionals are trained to use fingers such as the index, middle, or ring finger for this purpose because they provide a more accurate indication of the heart's rhythm without the interference of their own circulation.