What should be a nurse's first response to a patient exhibiting signs of respiratory distress?

In a situation where a patient is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress, the priority for the nurse is to assess airway patency and check for obstructions. This step is crucial because if the airway is compromised, any subsequent interventions—such as administering oxygen—will be ineffective. Ensuring that the airway is clear allows for proper ventilation and oxygenation, which is essential before taking other actions.

By first evaluating the airway, the nurse can quickly identify any potential blockages or issues that may be causing or contributing to the respiratory distress. This approach aligns with the ABCs of emergency care, where airway management is the top priority. Once the airway is established as patent, the nurse can then proceed to provide additional interventions, such as administering oxygen or calling for further assistance if needed.

Other options, while potentially important, may not address the immediate concern of a compromised airway. For instance, administering oxygen without checking the airway might not help if the airway is blocked. Calling for emergency assistance is important, but it is more effective after ensuring the patient's airway is secure. Initiating CPR is only necessary if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, which may not always be the case in respiratory distress scenarios. Therefore, assessing the airway first is the most appropriate and effective