A 22-year-old male fell from a ladder and is unresponsive with irregular, gasping respirations. What is your immediate action?

In a scenario where a patient is unresponsive with irregular, gasping respirations, the immediate priority is to secure and maintain a patent airway. The jaw-thrust maneuver is specifically designed to open the airway without causing further neck injury, which is crucial in cases of potential spinal injury, such as a fall from a ladder. This technique allows emergency responders to access the airway more effectively while minimizing the risk of exacerbating any cervical spine injury.

Using the jaw-thrust maneuver can help restore normal respiration and improve oxygenation until further interventions, such as advanced airway management, can be performed. Addressing the unresponsive patient's inability to breathe adequately is essential to prevent hypoxia and stabilize the individual during transport to advanced medical care.