Where should the CNA place her fingertips to take a patient's radial pulse?

To take a patient's radial pulse, the CNA should place her fingertips on the patient's wrist, specifically at the radial artery, which is located on the thumb side of the wrist. This location is ideal for palpating the pulse because the radial artery is relatively close to the surface of the skin and can be easily accessed. Placing the fingertips at this site allows for accurate assessment of the pulse rate, rhythm, and strength, which are critical components of monitoring a patient's cardiovascular health.

Other areas mentioned, such as the throat, abdomen, or ankle, are not suitable for checking the radial pulse. The throat is where the carotid pulse can be palpated, but that is a different measurement than the radial pulse usually taken for routine checks. The abdomen does not provide any accessible pulse points for such assessment, and while the ankle is where the posterior tibial or dorsalis pedis pulse can be taken, it is not relevant to determining the radial pulse. Hence, placing the fingertips on the wrist is the most appropriate action for measuring a patient's radial pulse.