Where is the best location to check the pulse of an adult who is unconscious and not breathing?

The best location to check the pulse of an adult who is unconscious and not breathing is at the carotid artery in the neck. The carotid artery is one of the major arteries in the body that supplies blood to the brain. In emergency situations, especially when someone is unconscious and not breathing, it's crucial to assess for a pulse quickly and effectively to determine whether cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is needed.

The carotid artery is located just beneath the surface of the skin in the neck, making it relatively easy to palpate. This location is particularly effective during emergencies, as it allows the rescuer to assess circulation to the brain, which is critical for survival.

In contrast, checking the pulse at the wrist would generally require more time and may not be as reliable in determining if there is a pulse present during an emergency. The heart itself is not accessible for pulse checking in this context, and the ankle pulse is a peripheral artery, which may not be palpable if the person is in a state of shock or if blood flow is critically compromised. Therefore, the carotid artery provides the most immediate and reliable indication of the individual’s circulatory status in this scenario.