Final answer:
In CPR, the carotid pulse is the most reliable pulse to check in an adult victim for pulselessness, found along the side of the neck and checked by applying gentle pressure with the tips of two fingers.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing an adult victim for pulselessness during CPR, the rescuer should palpate the most reliable and accessible pulse point. The correct pulse to palpate in this situation is c. carotid. The carotid pulse can be found along the side of the neck and is the most commonly checked pulse site in emergencies due to its large size and close proximity to the skin surface. The carotid artery delivers blood directly to the brain, making it one of the key sites to assess circulation to this vital organ. In assessing the carotid pulse, the rescuer places the tips of the index and middle fingers on the victim's neck, just below the angle of the jaw and slightly to the side of the windpipe, applying gentle pressure without pressing too hard, as this could restrict blood flow and also lead to an inaccurate assessment.