How long should you assess the pulse of a severely freezing patient?

• A. 15 seconds
• B. 30 seconds
• C. 45 seconds
• D. 60 seconds

Answer: (C)

In severe freezing conditions, the heart rate can be extremely slow and pulse sensations may be faint or irregular. Because of this, you extend the pulse check to give enough time to detect a very slow pulse. The 45-second pulse assessment balances the need to identify a possible bradycardic pulse with the need to avoid delaying care if the pulse is truly absent. If you detect a pulse within that window, continue monitoring and recheck later; if no pulse is felt after 45 seconds, start CPR and summon additional help while continuing rewarming.