You have just arrived by the side of a nonverbal patient with snoring respirations. The caregiver states that they were eating lunch when she suddenly collapsed face first onto the table. She also states that she has a history of a stroke, high blood pressure, and colon cancer. Your priority in caring for this patient at this time would be:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the patient's sudden collapse while eating and the presence of snoring respirations, the priority is to ensure an open airway. Snoring respirations indicate a partially obstructed airway, likely by the tongue or possibly obstructed by food. Opening and looking into the patient's mouth is the immediate action needed to address potential airway obstruction.

You Have Just Arrived by the Side of a Nonverbal