In the case of an unresponsive patient who has vomited fragments of pills, what is your first action during transport?

Positioning the patient on her side is crucial when dealing with an unresponsive individual who has vomited. This position, often referred to as the recovery position, helps prevent aspiration, which is when vomit or other materials enter the airway and lungs. Aspiration can lead to significant respiratory complications and can further compromise the patient's ability to breathe effectively.

When a patient is unresponsive, they may not have a protective airway reflex, increasing the risk of inhaling vomit. By positioning the patient on her side, any fluid or contents that may come up can drain out of the mouth, rather than pooling in the throat, thus protecting the airway.

While checking vital signs or blood sugar levels is important in emergency care, these measures should generally follow ensuring the patient’s immediate safety in terms of airway management. Similarly, contacting medical command is a necessary step for further guidance in treatment but should not take precedence over addressing the risks associated with aspiration for an unresponsive patient.