What is the correct procedure for checking responsiveness in an unconscious patient?

The appropriate procedure for checking responsiveness in an unconscious patient involves gently shaking the patient and shouting while assessing their reaction. This method is crucial because it allows the responder to elicit a response without causing excessive disturbance or injury to the patient. A gentle shake serves to stimulate the patient while the verbal cue is designed to engage their senses; it also allows the first responder to observe any signs of consciousness or awareness.

Shaking the patient too vigorously could potentially exacerbate any injuries they may have sustained, making it important to approach the situation with care. Checking for breathing without physical contact isn't effective for determining responsiveness because it doesn’t assess the central nervous system's function directly. Finally, waiting for the patient to wake up on their own is not a safe option, as it could lead to delays in necessary medical intervention. Therefore, the correct approach combines both physical and verbal stimulation to accurately gauge the patient's level of consciousness.