An adult patient with a gunshot wound to the thigh has a low respiratory rate but stable blood pressure; what should you do next?

• A. assist her ventilations
• B. package her for transport
• C. apply a pressure dressing
• D. apply a traction splint

Answer: (A)

Airway and breathing come first. A slow or shallow breathing pattern means the patient isn’t ventilating adequately, which can lead to hypoxia even if blood pressure looks okay. The immediate step is to assist ventilations with a bag–valve–mask and high-flow oxygen, watching for chest rise and using a pulse oximeter to guide care. If ventilation remains inadequate or the airway is compromised, escalate to airway adjuncts or an advanced airway per protocol. After breathing is supported, you can address other issues like bleeding and splinting while preparing for transport.