Alternate Names: Weak pulse; Absent pulse
Considerations: An absent or weak pulse may be localized (affecting one limb) or systemic (affecting the whole body).
The absence of a pulse as determined by a lay person may not indicate disease. Sometimes the process of feeling the pulse (such as in the wrist) will diminish or obliterate a superficial pulse.
Common Causes:
- improper technique used to feel for the pulse
- normally weak pulse that is difficult to measure without proper instruments
- shock
- cardiac arrest (lack of an effective heartbeat)
Home Care: Follow the treatment prescribed by your health care provider. CPR may be necessary!
Call If:
- 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 now!
What To Expect: The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting weak or absent pulse in detail may include:
- quality
- Is the pulse weak?
- Is it absent?
- location
- 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)?
- other
- What other symptoms are also present?
Physical examination may include monitoring or the vital signs (pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure). Emergency measures will be taken as necessary. Continued monitoring may be necessary.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to a weak or absent pulse to your personal medical record.
