In a multiple-casualty incident, what is the immediate action to take if a teen is found not breathing?

In a multiple-casualty incident, finding a patient who is not breathing requires immediate assessment and intervention to determine the best course of action. Opening the patient's airway and checking for a radial pulse is a crucial first step in the assessment process. This allows the responder to confirm whether the airway is compromised and to evaluate if the patient has any circulation.

By opening the airway, a responder can see if there is an obstruction that might be easily resolved, which could restore breathing. Additionally, checking for a radial pulse helps gauge the patient's circulatory status and whether the heart is still pumping blood. This assessment is vital before proceeding to CPR, as it provides critical information that can influence subsequent actions.

Other options, while relevant in a broader sense, do not address the immediate need for assessment. Moving the patient to a safer location could jeopardize their condition if they are not breathing and may delay necessary life-saving measures. Administering CPR immediately could be warranted but first requires a brief assessment to ensure it is appropriate. Likewise, placing a triage tag might be necessary for organizational purposes but does not directly assist in providing immediate care to the unresponsive patient. Therefore, the best immediate action is to ensure the airway is open and the patient's pulse is assessed