What artery do you feel the pulse at in adults?

The carotid artery is commonly used to check the pulse in adults, particularly in emergency situations. This artery is located on each side of the neck and can be palpated easily because it is close to the skin's surface and is a major blood vessel supplying the head and neck with blood. The carotid pulse is often assessed to determine the heart rate and rhythm, making it an important site in both medical assessments and resuscitation efforts.

While the radial artery, located at the wrist, is typically the most common site for assessing pulse in a clinical setting for a conscious patient, the carotid artery is preferred in scenarios where the person may be unconscious or unresponsive because it is more easily accessible. The brachial artery can also be used, especially in infants or young children, but in adults, the carotid pulse stands out for its prominence and reliability in emergency assessments. The subclavian artery, although significant, is not usually palpated for pulse checks in routine practice.