The carotid pulse check is used to determine the presence of which sign?

• A. Breathing
• B. Pulse
• C. Circulation
• D. Blood Pressure

Answer: (B)

Palpating the carotid artery checks for the presence of a pulse, which is a direct sign of circulation. The carotid site is large and easy to feel in an emergency, so feeling a pulse confirms that the heart is beating and blood is circulating. If a pulse is present, you know some circulation is occurring; if no pulse is detected, it suggests there is no effective circulation and CPR would be indicated. Breathing and blood pressure are assessed differently—breathing by watching chest movement and air flow, and blood pressure with a cuff and gauge—so the carotid pulse check specifically answered whether a pulse (and thus circulation) is present.