Pulse - weak or absent

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Neck pulse

Overview Treatment

Pulse - weak or absent

Follow the treatment prescribed by your health care provider. CPR may be necessary!

• There is any sudden, severe, or persistent decrease in the pulse quality or rate, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.
• Shock is suspected. This can be life-threatening. Take emergency measures immediately!

Your medical provider will obtain a medical history, do a physical exam, and ask questions like:

• Is the pulse weak?
• Is it absent?
• Is the pulse weak or absent in only one location?
• Is a major pulse weak or absent (for example, when checking the carotid pulse in the neck)?
• What other symptoms are also present?

Physical examination may include monitoring of the vital signs (pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure). Emergency measures will be taken as necessary. Continued monitoring may be necessary.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• Aortography
• Arteriography such as extremity arteriography
• Doppler ultrasonography
• Blood studies (CBC or blood differential)
• ECG
• Echocardiography
• X-rays of the chest

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