Advanced Medical Life Support Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Guide

The responder's first action upon discovering an unconscious patient should be to open the airway and assess breathing. This is critical because an unconscious patient may have an obstruction in their airway due to the relaxed state of their muscles, and ensuring a clear airway is essential for effective ventilation and oxygenation.

By assessing the airway and breathing, the responder can determine whether the patient is breathing adequately or if immediate interventions are necessary. If the patient is not breathing or is found to be in a state of respiratory distress, further actions, such as administering oxygen or initiating chest compressions, would follow based on the assessment.

Taking this initial step aligns with the principles of basic life support, where the primary focus is on ensuring that the airway is open, as this is vital for any subsequent resuscitation efforts. It also sets the stage for making informed decisions about further interventions.