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

The carotid artery is the most effective location to check the pulse of an unconscious and non-breathing adult. This is primarily because the carotid artery is large and easily accessible; it delivers blood from the heart to the brain. In emergencies, when assessing circulation in an unresponsive patient, it's crucial to rapidly check for a pulse in a location where blood flow is strong and can be palpated without difficulty.

When an adult is unconscious and not breathing, time is of the essence, and locating a pulse quickly allows for the assessment of the need for CPR or other interventions. The carotid pulse is typically the most reliable indicator of circulatory status in this context. In contrast, other pulse points, such as the radial, femoral, or brachial arteries, are generally less accessible or may not provide a clear indication of cardiac status in critical situations. The brachial artery, while useful for infants, is not practical for adults in emergencies. This underscores why the carotid artery is the best choice for this specific scenario.