How do you assess for circulation in a casualty?

To assess for circulation in a casualty, checking for a pulse at major arteries is a critical indication of whether blood is effectively circulating throughout the body. The pulse reflects the heart's ability to pump blood and the vascular system's ability to conduct that blood to various parts of the body. By palpating major arteries, such as the carotid or radial arteries, you can determine if there is sufficient blood flow, which is essential for sustaining life.

This method is especially important in emergencies where other signs may not be as readily observable or may be misleading. While other assessments, such as examining skin color or listening for heartbeats, can provide additional information about the casualty's overall condition, the presence or absence of a pulse is a direct measurement of circulation.