During management of a semiconscious gunshot wound to the abdomen with external bleeding, your partner should:

• A. perform a secondary assessment.
• B. assist the patient's ventilations.
• C. apply a nonrebreathing mask.
• D. obtain baseline vital signs.

Answer: (B)

The immediate priority is ensuring the patient can breathe adequately. A semiconscious trauma patient may have an airway compromise or insufficient ventilation from the injury, so you should assist ventilations with a bag‑valve mask to deliver breaths at about 10–12 per minute, while maintaining a clear airway (use jaw‑thrust and inline stabilization if spinal injury is suspected). Oxygen delivery with a nonrebreathing mask is helpful once ventilation is being supported, but the first action is to ensure ventilation; secondary assessment and baseline vitals come after breathing is secured.