The carotid massage vagal maneuver is recommended only for patients under 40 years old.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only under 60
• D. Not recommended at all

Answer: (A)

Carotid sinus massage is a vagal maneuver used to terminate certain narrow complex tachycardias by increasing parasympathetic tone and slowing AV nodal conduction. Because it can dislodge plaque or cause embolic stroke, the risk rises with age. In many EMS protocols, this makes the maneuver appropriate mainly for younger patients, typically under 40, provided there are no contraindications like carotid bruits or a history of stroke/TIA or known carotid disease. That’s why the statement that it’s recommended only for patients under 40 is the best match. It isn’t considered universally safe for all ages, and it isn’t never used or limited to an older age; age-related risk is the controlling factor.