Locate the carotid pulse

Question 1

Describe how to locate the carotid pulse

Answer 1

• Get the patient to turn their head as you place a hand against the side they turn to and provide resistance - this will cause the SCM to become prominent
• The carotid pulse can be located anteriorly to the SCM and at the level of the superior border of the laryngeal prominence
• Place your finger here
• Get the patient to face forward agan in order to actually be able to feel the carotid pulse