What should be your first action for a patient found unresponsive with a prescription bottle nearby?

The first action when encountering a patient who is unresponsive is to ensure their airway is clear and provide assistance in breathing if necessary. In this scenario, the presence of a prescription bottle raises concern for a possible overdose or other medical emergency. An unresponsive patient may not adequately ventilate on their own, making it critical to assist their breathing with a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM).

Using a BVM allows for effective ventilation, which can help oxygenate the patient's blood and prevent further hypoxia, a condition caused by insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues. This action is paramount in emergency care, as maintaining oxygenation can be lifesaving. Once basic life support measures are initiated, further assessments and interventions, such as contacting poison control or applying supplemental oxygen, can be pursued.