Which pulse is most commonly checked in an unresponsive adult victim?

The carotid pulse is the most commonly checked pulse in an unresponsive adult victim because it is more accessible and typically easier to palpate in a supine position. The carotid arteries run alongside the neck, which allows emergency responders to quickly assess circulation even when a person is not conscious or responsive.

Checking the carotid pulse is particularly important in emergency situations because it can provide immediate feedback on the victim's hemodynamic status. If the carotid pulse is absent, it suggests that the person may be in cardiac arrest, which requires prompt intervention.

In contrast, the radial pulse, while useful in a responsive individual, can be difficult to detect accurately in an unresponsive victim due to variations in blood flow or positioning. The femoral pulse, located in the groin area, is also an option but is generally used less frequently in this context because accessing it can be more cumbersome. The popliteal pulse, found behind the knee, is not typically assessed in emergency scenarios, especially when quick evaluation of responsiveness and circulation is necessary.