Final answer:
The radial artery at the wrist is the most common site for checking an adult's pulse due to its accessibility and reliability. Other sites like the carotid and brachial arteries are alternative locations, but the radial artery remains the preferred choice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common arterial site for obtaining an adult pulse is the radial artery located at the wrist. The radial artery is formed at the bifurcation of the brachial artery, running parallel to the radius. It supplies blood to the lower arm and carpal region, making it a convenient and accessible place for pulse measurement. Although the carotid artery in the neck and the brachial artery in the upper arm are other common pulse sites, the radial artery is the most readily used location for pulse palpation, especially in routine checks and non-emergency situations. Other pulse points such as the temporal, facial, femoral, popliteal, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis arteries can also be used depending on the specific clinical situation.