What should be done immediately if an elderly patient is found unresponsive after a fall?

In the situation where an elderly patient is found unresponsive after a fall, the priority is to assess airway and breathing. This is critical because a patient who is unresponsive may not be able to maintain an open airway or may not be breathing effectively, which can lead to severe complications, such as hypoxia or death.

By promptly assessing the airway first, you can determine if the patient requires immediate intervention, such as positioning to maintain airway patency or initiating rescue breaths if they are not breathing. Ensuring that the airway is clear and the patient is breathing is essential before addressing other concerns, such as checking for visible injuries or calling for backup. Time is of the essence in emergency situations, especially when dealing with unresponsiveness, and starting with the airway and breathing assessment lays the foundational steps for effective patient care.