Cardiac Arrest Assessment During CPR: How to Locate the Carotid Artery

When performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), one of the key steps is to determine whether the person is experiencing cardiac arrest. For the general public, current guidelines recommend assessing responsiveness and breathing as the primary indicators of cardiac arrest. If someone appears unconscious or collapses suddenly, the first step is to check if they are responsive. This can be done by calling out to them loudly and gently tapping both shoulders to see if there is any reaction.

After checking for consciousness, the next step is to evaluate breathing. Place your ear close to the person's mouth and nose while looking at their chest. Listen and feel for any signs of normal breathing, and visually check whether the chest rises and falls. If after 5–10 seconds there is no chest movement or signs of breathing, it is likely that the person has stopped breathing and is in cardiac arrest. At this point, CPR should be initiated immediately.

Why Checking the Carotid Pulse Matters

While checking for breathing is often sufficient for laypersons, trained individuals may also assess the carotid pulse to confirm cardiac arrest. This method provides a more accurate indication of whether the heart has stopped beating. The carotid artery is located on either side of the neck, just beside the Adam's apple. To locate it, place two fingers in the hollow area next to the voice box—approximately two finger-widths away from the midline of the neck.

How to Properly Check the Carotid Pulse

Once you have located the general area, gently press your fingers into the soft space to feel for a pulse. Take 5–10 seconds to assess whether there is any pulsation. If no pulse is detected within this time frame, it is reasonable to assume that the person is in cardiac arrest. At this stage, beginning CPR with chest compressions is crucial to maintaining blood circulation and increasing the chances of survival.

Although the public is generally advised to focus on responsiveness and breathing, understanding how to locate and assess the carotid pulse enhances the accuracy of determining cardiac arrest. Proper technique and quick decision-making are vital in emergency situations, and timely CPR can significantly improve outcomes for victims of sudden cardiac arrest.