What is the first step in the assessment of a critically ill patient?

Evaluating the airway is crucial as the first step in assessing a critically ill patient because the airway is essential for effective respiration and oxygenation. If a patient's airway is compromised, it can quickly lead to life-threatening conditions. In critical care settings, even a brief lack of airway patency can result in significant hypoxia and potential cardiac arrest.

When dealing with critically ill patients, ensuring that their airway is clear and functional is a priority. This step often precedes other assessments, such as checking vital signs or reviewing lab results, because without a secure airway, the patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly.

While monitoring vital signs and gathering patient history are important components of a comprehensive assessment, they cannot directly address immediate threats to the patient's survival like airway evaluation can. Therefore, prioritizing airway management is essential in the context of critical illness.