What is the preferred technique to check for breathing in an unconscious person?

The preferred technique to check for breathing in an unconscious person is to look, listen, and feel for breath for no more than 10 seconds. This method involves positioning yourself close to the person's mouth and nose to detect any airflow. While observing for chest movements can provide some indication of breathing, it does not allow for as thorough an assessment as the three-pronged approach of looking, listening, and feeling.

By utilizing this technique, you can accurately determine if the person is breathing and whether immediate lifesaving measures are required, such as performing CPR. Checking for a pulse is not a method to assess breathing and does not replace the need to evaluate airway and ventilation status. Shaking the person gently is not an appropriate technique for checking breathing, as it might cause further harm or wake the person if they are in a stable condition.