Non-Invasive Methods of Peripheral Pulse Detection: Advantages and Disadvantages

In a series of resuscitation guidelines produced by authoritative international organizations is emphasized that checking the carotid pulse is an inaccurate method of confirming the presence or absence of circulation. A summary review of the most popular non-invasive methods of peripheral pulse detection is presented in this work - Photo- plethysmography, Impedance Plethysmography, Doppler Ultrasound, Arterial Tonometry and Oscillometric method. A comparative analysis of the methods highlights their advantages and disadvantages in view of applicability in emergency situations. Photoplethysmography and Impedance Plethysmography are estimated as having very good and good applicability. The usage of Doppler Ultrasound method for peripheral pulse detection is possible, but is associated with technological difficulties and high cost. In the rest of the methods substantial disadvantages stand out. Keywords - Peripheral pulse detection, Non-invasive methods, Emergency