A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client following a motor-vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Administer supplemental oxygen: Providing oxygen is important for tissue perfusion and preventing hypoxia, but airway and spinal stability take priority in trauma care to prevent further injury. B. Initiate access: Establishing IV access is essential for fluid resuscitation and medication administration, but it comes after ensuring airway, breathing, and spinal stability. C. Stabilize the cervical spine: Spinal stabilization is the first action because the client was involved in a motor-vehicle crash and is at risk for cervical spine injury. Preventing further spinal cord damage takes precedence according to the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) and trauma protocols. D. Apply a warming blanket: Maintaining body temperature is important for trauma clients, but it is a lower priority compared with protecting the spine and ensuring airway and oxygenation.