In sudden airway compromise with respiratory distress, what is the immediate action the nurse should take?

• A. Document patient status and await physician instruction.
• B. Ensure a patent airway and assist breathing (activate emergency response if needed) before addressing other tasks.
• C. Administer a prescribed bronchodilator before checking airway.
• D. Elevate the head of bed and reassess later.

Answer: (B)

Securing the airway and supporting breathing is the priority. In sudden airway compromise with respiratory distress, the first action is to ensure the airway is patent and help the patient breathe. This protects against hypoxia and buys time to deliver definitive care. If needed, activate the emergency response promptly to bring in additional help and equipment. Once the airway and breathing are being addressed, you can proceed with other tasks.

Delaying to document status or await physician orders wastes crucial time. Administering a bronchodilator might help with bronchospasm, but it won’t fix an obstructed or compromised airway if patency hasn’t been established. Elevating the head may aid breathing, but it does not substitute for securing the airway and providing ventilation.