An unresponsive adult with a deformed left arm, scene safe, ALS on the way. You should

• A. Move the patient
• B. Check glucose
• C. Administer analgesics
• D. Assess ABCs

Answer: (D)

In this situation, the priority is to identify and manage life threats right away by assessing airway, breathing, and circulation. An unresponsive trauma patient can deteriorate quickly if the airway is compromised or breathing or circulation is not adequate, so the first step is the primary survey: ensure the airway is open, check for effective breathing, and assess circulation. If the airway is blocked, use airway maneuvers or ventilation as needed; if there’s no breathing, start rescue breaths or CPR; check for a pulse and signs of perfusion, control obvious bleeding, and provide high-flow oxygen while ALS arrives. Avoid moving the patient unnecessarily, especially with potential spinal injury, and avoid giving medications like analgesics or glucose until airway and breathing are secured and you know the patient’s needs. The deformed arm is a sign of trauma, but life threats come first.