What should be assessed when checking for an unresponsive adult's breathing?

When checking for an unresponsive adult's breathing, it is essential to assess both the visual and tactile signs of breathing. Looking for chest rise enables you to see if the individual is taking breaths, indicating effective airflow. Simultaneously, feeling for air movement provides confirmation that air is being expelled from the lungs, which is vital for determining the presence of effective breathing. By combining both observations, you gain a comprehensive understanding of the person's respiratory status, allowing for appropriate actions to be taken. This dual assessment is crucial for identifying whether the individual requires immediate intervention for potential respiratory failure or cardiac arrest.