How do you check for responsiveness in an adult?

To check for responsiveness in an adult, it is essential to use a method that ensures both clarity and stimulation. The correct approach is to tap the individual on the shoulder or arm and shout, "Are you okay?" This method combines tactile and auditory stimulus, making it more effective in determining whether the person is alert or responsive.

This method helps gauge whether the person is awake and aware of their surroundings; any acknowledgment would indicate a level of responsiveness. If they do not respond, it is crucial to initiate further emergency action, such as calling for help or starting CPR, depending on the situation.

Other methods, while they may seem to prompt a response, do not provide the same level of effectiveness or thoroughness. For instance, shouting their name loudly may not be sufficient if the individual is unconscious or unable to hear due to their condition. Gently shaking them can also be done but might not generate the required alertness needed to assess responsiveness effectively. Removing obstructions from their mouth is a step that would be taken in a different context, specifically if the person appears to be choking, and does not directly assess responsiveness.