Locating the Carotid Artery: A Vital First Aid Guide

The carotid artery is the main artery supplying blood to the head and neck. It is one of the two areas used for taking a pulse, and the last place a person loses a pulse. It is therefore the most important spot in the body to assess cardiac function in someone who is in shock. Knowing how to locate this artery, especially when the pulse is not strong, could save someone's life.

Instructions

• 1

  Use your first and second fingers on one hand and place them halfway between your chin and your ear. This is approximately where your carotid artery runs.

• 2

  Move your fingers slowly down your neck from this position. You should be able to feel a pulse a little less than halfway down your neck.

• 3

  Move slightly to the right or left if you cannot feel the pulse. When you feel the beating in your neck you will know for sure that you have found the carotid artery.