Your patient is lying unresponsive near a tank with placards posted on it. You should

• A. Assess Airway
• B. Move patient away
• C. Start CPR
• D. Alert dispatch

Answer: (D)

Hazard recognition and scene safety come first. A tank with placards means a potentially dangerous material is present, so you must not approach or start patient care until trained HazMat responders assess and control the area. Alerting dispatch brings HazMat teams and medical command to the scene, establishes a safe perimeter, and guides decontamination and PPE use. Only after the scene is secured should you assess airway or start resuscitation if needed. Moving the patient or attempting care in an unsafe zone could expose you and others to the hazard, or spread contamination, which is why calling for the right help is the best first action.