New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Opening the patient’s airway and assessing their respirations is the appropriate immediate action in this scenario. When encountering an unconscious patient, particularly in a life-threatening situation like a suspected suicide attempt, ensuring the airway is open is critical.

An obstructed airway can lead to inadequate oxygenation and further complications, so establishing a clear airway is often the first step in any emergency assessment. After securing the airway, assessing the patient's respirations provides essential information about their current state and informs the next steps in care.

Prioritizing airway management aligns with the basic principles of the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) in emergency medicine. This approach allows for timely intervention, which can be lifesaving, especially if the patient has ingested substances that could depress their respiratory function.