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In situations involving an unresponsive client, the initial priority is to check the client's airway for blockage. The rationale behind this is based on the basic principles of airway management in emergency care. An unresponsive individual may be unable to maintain an open airway due to factors such as loss of consciousness, which increases the risk of airway obstruction.

When the airway is compromised, it can lead to inadequate oxygenation and ultimately result in respiratory distress or failure. By assessing the airway first, a healthcare provider ensures that any potential blockage is identified and addressed promptly, facilitating the delivery of essential oxygen to the lungs and preventing further deterioration of the client’s condition.

While determining the last known time the client was responsive and notifying the healthcare provider are important considerations, they do not take precedence over securing an open airway in an emergency situation. Additionally, beginning CPR is crucial in the absence of breathing, but only after verifying that the airway is clear, as effective CPR is reliant on maintaining an unobstructed airway to optimize circulatory and respiratory support.