What is the first action to take when responding to a patient who drank cologne and has altered mental status?

The situation involves a patient who has ingested cologne and is exhibiting altered mental status, which indicates a potential airway compromise due to decreased consciousness. In such cases, the first action should prioritize ensuring that the patient's airway is clear and that they can breathe adequately.

Initiating positive pressure ventilation is a response focused on addressing potential respiratory failure. If the patient's mental status is altered, they may be unable to maintain their own airway, leading to risks of inadequate ventilation and oxygenation. By providing positive pressure ventilation, you can help ensure that the patient continues to receive adequate air exchange, which is crucial in any emergency situation, especially one involving potential poisoning.

Other actions, while important in management of the patient, are secondary to ensuring respiratory support. For instance, contacting the poison control center can provide guidance for managing poisoning cases but does not address the immediate need for airway support. Placing an oropharyngeal airway could also be a necessary step to maintain airway patency, but if the patient is unable to breathe effectively on their own, positive pressure ventilation takes precedence. Preparing activated charcoal is relevant in the treatment of poisonings; however, it should only be administered if the patient's airway is secured and they are alert enough to protect their own airway, which