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The ABC of life support (2)

Prior life support training is necessary

C. Circulation:

Feel for a pulse at the carotid artery in the neck, which is either side of the larynx (voice box or Adam's apple).

If there is no pulse, cardiac massage involves lying the person on a flat, hard surface, placing the heel of your first hand over the lower part of their sternum (breast) bone, and then placing the heel of your second hand over your first hand. Then, with your arms straight and elbows locked, perform resuscitation at the rate of one breath for every five chest compressions, as described in section B above. Check every two minutes for restoration of the pulse and for the return of breathing.