What should be your first action if a patient becomes unresponsive after oral glucose administration?

When a patient becomes unresponsive after administration of oral glucose, the first action should be to open and inspect the airway. This is crucial because an unresponsive patient may have compromised airway control, making them at risk for airway obstruction due to the loss of muscle tone, which can lead to aspiration or inadequate oxygenation. By ensuring the airway is open and clear, emergency responders can provide adequate ventilation and prevent further complications.

Monitoring vital signs, administering oxygen, and moving the patient to a recovery position are all important steps as well, but they come after ensuring the airway is secure. If the airway is not attended to first, any subsequent actions may be ineffective, as an unprotected airway could lead to critical situations, such as respiratory arrest or severe hypoxia. Therefore, prioritizing airway management aligns with best practices in emergency care protocols.