Jugular Vein vs Carotid Artery - Distinguishing Neck Pulsations on Physical Exam
Jugular Vein:
 - No pulsations palpable.	
 - Pulsations obliterated by pressure above the clavicle.	
 - Level of pulse wave decreased on inspiration; increased on expiration.	
 - Usually two pulsations per systole (x and y descents).	
 - Prominent descents.	
 - Pulsations sometimes more prominent with abdominal pressure.	
Carotid Artery:
 - Palpable pulsations. 
 - Pulsations not obliterated by pressure above the clavicle. 
 - No effects of respiration on pulse. 
 - One pulsation per systole. 
 - Descents not prominent.
 - No effect of abdominal pressure on pulsations.

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