How long should a pulse be checked to confirm pulselessness?

To confirm pulselessness effectively, it is recommended to check the pulse for a duration of 60 seconds. This timeframe allows enough opportunity to accurately assess for the presence or absence of a pulse, minimizing the risk of falsely concluding that a pulse is absent due to a momentary irregularity or difficulty in palpation. This method is particularly important in emergency situations where the distinction between a pulse and no pulse can greatly impact the subsequent course of action, such as the decision to initiate CPR or advanced resuscitation efforts. Checking for a full minute also aligns with recommendations in advanced life support protocols, emphasizing the importance of thoroughness in such critical assessments.