Definition of Pulse - weak or absent:

A weak pulse means you have difficulty feeling a person's pulse (heart beat). An absent pulse means you can not detect a pulse at all.

See also: CPR

Considerations:

An absent or weak pulse may affect all or one part of the body.

If a pulse cannot be detected by a non-medical professional, it doesn't always mean there is a problem. Sometimes, it can be hard for a non-medical person to detect a pulse in certain areas.

Common Causes:

• Improper technique used to feel for the pulse
• Normally weak pulse that is difficult to measure without proper instruments
• Shock
• Cardiac arrest (lack of an effective heartbeat)