After performing a rapid assessment on an adult patient, which organ system should be prioritized for immediate evaluation if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing?

• A. Integumentary system
• B. Digestive system
• C. Respiratory system
• D. Reproductive system

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the scenario described in the problem. The patient is unresponsive and not breathing, which indicates a critical situation requiring immediate intervention.
2. Step 2: Recall the primary functions of the organ systems listed. The integumentary system is responsible for protection and temperature regulation, the digestive system handles nutrient absorption, the respiratory system facilitates gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide), and the reproductive system is involved in reproduction.
3. Step 3: Recognize that breathing is directly controlled by the respiratory system, which includes the lungs, trachea, and diaphragm. This system is essential for oxygen delivery to tissues and removal of carbon dioxide from the body.
4. Step 4: Prioritize the respiratory system for immediate evaluation because it is directly responsible for breathing. Without oxygen, other organ systems, including the brain and heart, will fail rapidly.
5. Step 5: Understand that in emergency situations, the respiratory system is often assessed first, followed by the cardiovascular system, as these are critical for sustaining life. This is why the respiratory system is the correct answer in this scenario.