When assessing for circulation during a resuscitation, what are you checking for?

During resuscitation, assessing circulation is crucial to determine if the heart is effectively pumping blood and delivering oxygen to vital organs. Checking for a pulse is a direct indicator of cardiac function and circulation status; a pulse signifies that the heart is beating, while its absence suggests potential cardiac arrest or severe circulatory impairment. Additionally, assessing for signs of severe bleeding helps identify life-threatening conditions that can compromise circulation and necessitate immediate intervention.

Breathing rate and depth, skin temperature, and neurological responsiveness do provide valuable information about a patient’s overall status but are more directly related to respiration and neurological function than to circulation specifically. Therefore, the focus on pulse and signs of severe bleeding is essential in any resuscitation effort to effectively assess and manage the patient's circulatory state.