25/03/2025
Checking for pulse in Basic Life Support (BLS) is important to determine whether a person has cardiac activity/Circulation and if chest compressions are needed. Here’s why it’s important:
🔹 Reasons for Checking Pulse in BLS?
1️⃣ To Confirm Cardiac Arrest 🚑
If a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, checking the carotid pulse (in adults) or brachial pulse (in infants) helps determine if the heart is still beating.
2️⃣ To Avoid Unnecessary Chest Compressions ❌
Performing CPR on a person with a pulse can be harmful, potentially causing injuries like rib fractures or unnecessary cardiac stress.
3️⃣ To Decide the Next Action 🔄
No pulse? Start high-quality chest compressions immediately.
Pulse present but no normal breathing? Start rescue breaths at 1 breath every 5–6 seconds.
4️⃣ To Monitor CPR Effectiveness 📊
During CPR, if spontaneous circulation returns (ROSC – Return of Spontaneous Circulation), you may feel a pulse again, indicating that the heart is trying to resume normal function.
⏳ How Long Should You Check the Pulse?
No more than 10 seconds! If you’re unsure or can’t feel a pulse, assume cardiac arrest and start compressions.
Practice makes Perfect! Save a life knowing How!
Register for a BLS class today!
