During an assessment, what is one of the first things you should check?

During an assessment, one of the first things to check is airway patency because ensuring that the airway is open and unobstructed is crucial for effective ventilation and oxygenation. If the airway is compromised, it can lead to hypoxia, which is a life-threatening condition. A clear airway allows for the proper exchange of gases in the lungs, vital for patient survival.

Once the airway is established, you can then proceed to assess other factors, such as circulation and vital signs, but the airway must always be prioritized as it is the cornerstone of pre-hospital emergency care. If a patient cannot breathe, immediate interventions are necessary to secure their airway before addressing other conditions.