What systolic blood pressure is necessary to feel a carotid pulse?

To palpate a carotid pulse effectively, it is generally accepted that the systolic blood pressure must be at least 60 mmHg. This is because the carotid arteries are relatively deep and well-protected in the neck, meaning that adequate blood pressure is essential to provide sufficient blood flow in order to create a palpable pulse.

When blood pressure falls below this threshold, perfusion to the carotid arteries may be compromised, making it difficult or impossible to detect a pulse. Therefore, a systolic blood pressure of 60 mmHg or higher is typically necessary for the carotid pulse to be felt reliably in most patients, especially in emergency situations where blood perfusion may be diminished.