A nurse at a long-term care facility discovers flames coming from a trash can in the day room. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Rationale: A. This option is incorrect because, while closing doors can help contain a fire and reduce the spread of smoke, it is not the first action. Immediate notification is crucial to ensure that professional responders are aware of the fire. B. This option is correct because activating the fire alarm is the first step in the RACE (Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish) protocol. Alerting the fire department and facility staff ensures a rapid response, helps coordinate evacuation, and mobilizes additional resources to manage the fire safely. C. This option is incorrect because moving clients to safety is essential, but it follows activating the alarm. Rescue efforts should be coordinated after the fire department is notified to prevent additional hazards during evacuation. D. This option is incorrect because using a fire extinguisher may be appropriate for a small, contained fire, but it should only be attempted after the alarm has been activated and if it is safe for the nurse to do so. The priority is alerting others to the danger first.