What should be the first step if a patient is found to be apneic?

When a patient is found to be apneic, the first priority is to initiate artificial ventilation. This is essential because apneic patients are unable to breathe on their own, which means they are not providing adequate oxygenation to their bodies. Artificial ventilation ensures that oxygen is delivered and carbon dioxide is expelled, thereby addressing the critical need for respiratory support.

In this scenario, starting chest compressions immediately is not appropriate unless there is also a lack of pulse; chest compressions are reserved for situations involving cardiac arrest. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula would not be effective, as the patient is not taking in any breaths to benefit from supplemental oxygen. Assessing the patient's level of consciousness, while important for overall evaluation and care, does not address the immediate need for ventilation in an apneic patient. Therefore, initiating artificial ventilation is the most crucial and immediate action to stabilize the patient.