JBL EMT Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when dealing with an unresponsive patient who is breathing inadequately?

1. Ensuring a clear airway

2. Initiating chest compressions

3. Obtaining a blood pressure reading

4. Providing detailed patient history

The correct answer is: Ensuring a clear airway

When dealing with an unresponsive patient who is breathing inadequately, the primary concern is to ensure a clear airway. This is crucial because if the airway is obstructed, it can prevent the patient from breathing effectively, potentially leading to a more serious condition or even respiratory arrest. By ensuring a clear airway, you can help maintain the patient's ability to breathe and oxygenate their body, which is vital for their survival. Initiating chest compressions, obtaining a blood pressure reading, and providing a detailed patient history are important steps in patient assessment and care but ensuring a clear airway takes precedence when dealing with an unresponsive patient who is breathing inadequately.