Which pressure point is used to check the victim's pulse?

• A. Radial
• B. Carotid
• C. Brachial
• D. Femoral

Answer: (B)

The carotid pulse is used because this central artery runs near the heart, making its pulse the quickest and most reliable indicator of heart activity in an unresponsive person. It’s easiest to locate on the neck beside the windpipe, so you can check quickly with two fingers for about 5–10 seconds to decide if the heart is beating. The wrist (radial) pulse can be weak or absent when circulation is compromised, making it less dependable in an emergency. The brachial pulse is mainly used in infants or for blood pressure checks, and the femoral pulse is harder to locate quickly in a stressed situation. So, checking the carotid pulse provides the fastest, most dependable cue about whether CPR is needed.