In the case of a drowning victim, what should be prioritized?

In the scenario involving a drowning victim, administering rescue breaths first is prioritized because drowning typically leads to a lack of oxygen, which is a critical factor in determining survival. When a person has drowned, they may be unconscious and not breathing adequately due to water in the airways or respiratory distress. Providing rescue breaths immediately helps to restore oxygen to the lungs, which can be vital in reviving the victim and minimizing potential brain injury from hypoxia.

While it is also important to activate emergency medical assistance, such as calling 911, the immediate focus in this specific context is on addressing the airway and breathing issues. Checking for a pulse can be important but is generally secondary to ensuring that the victim is receiving oxygen. Starting with rescue breaths ensures that even if a pulse is present, the vital oxygen supply is being supported right away, which is essential for any rescue attempt.