Taking your carotid pulse

1. Find the area on one side of your neck near your windpipe. Your carotid pulse can be taken on either side of your neck.
2. Put the tip of your index and long finger in the groove of your neck along your windpipe to feel the pulse in your carotid artery. Do not press on the carotid artery on both sides of your neck at the same time. This may cause you to feel lightheaded or dizzy, or possibly faint.
3. Apply just enough pressure so you can feel each beat. Do not push too hard or you will obstruct the blood flow.
4. Watch the second hand on your watch or a clock as you count how many times you feel your pulse.
5. Record your pulse rate.