A 56-year-old female is struggling to breathe with wheezing and is unable to hold her head up. What should you do?

In the scenario described, where a 56-year-old female is struggling to breathe and exhibiting wheezing while being unable to hold her head up, checking the airway for foreign body obstructions is the most crucial initial step. This is because airway patency is fundamental to effective ventilation and oxygenation.

In patients who are struggling to breathe, especially when there are audible wheezes, there is a possibility of an obstruction, either due to anatomical issues (like swelling) or foreign objects, which could exacerbate their respiratory distress. By checking the airway, you can quickly determine if there’s an obstruction that needs to be addressed immediately.

Providing oxygen, administering medication, or starting CPR would be appropriate responses depending on the specific situation, but they come after ensuring that the airway is clear. Without a clear airway, any further interventions like giving medication or supplemental oxygen may not be effective. Furthermore, starting CPR is indicated only in cases of cardiac arrest, which does not directly relate to the immediate concerns of this patient, who is still breathing albeit inadequately. Therefore, the priority must be to assess and secure the airway first.