What is the first step in managing a patient who is unresponsive?

When managing a patient who is unresponsive, the first step is to check for breathing and a pulse. This initial assessment is crucial since it helps determine the patient's immediate medical needs and informs subsequent actions. In this situation, assessing for breathing and a pulse provides essential information regarding whether the patient is in cardiac arrest or experiencing respiratory failure. If neither is detected, it becomes critical to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and call for advanced medical help as necessary. This step lays the foundation for effective emergency care and helps ensure that appropriate interventions are initiated promptly.

Other options, while important in their own right, are secondary to the immediate assessment of vital signs. Administering oxygen may be necessary later, especially if the patient is found to be breathing but requires support. Similarly, calling for advanced medical help is vital but should occur after initial assessments if a life-threatening condition is identified. Positioning the patient for comfort is less relevant in the context of an unresponsive individual, as the priority is to ascertain their level of consciousness and vital functions before making any positional adjustments.