In a patient who suddenly develops dyspnea with cyanosis and decreased SpO2, what is the first priority action?

• A. Check blood glucose level.
• B. Obtain chest X-ray.
• C. Ensure airway patency and administer oxygen; call for help.
• D. Document assessment and continue monitoring.

Answer: (C)

When someone suddenly develops dyspnea with cyanosis and a low SpO2, the priority is to secure the airway and restore oxygenation. Start by ensuring the airway is patent—position the patient to optimize airway alignment and use appropriate maneuvers (for example, jaw thrust if there’s concern for limited airway access). Administer supplemental oxygen right away to improve oxygen saturation, and be ready to escalate to more advanced airway support if needed. At the same time, call for help and gather additional equipment and personnel so ventilation support can be provided promptly if the patient deteriorates.

Actions like checking blood glucose or obtaining a chest X-ray don’t address the immediate life threat of hypoxemia and can delay essential oxygen delivery and airway management. Documentation and ongoing monitoring are important, but they come after establishing a secure airway and adequate oxygenation.