A nurse is assessing a client who has a central venous catheter (CVC) with intravenous (IV) fluids infusing. The client suddenly develops shortness of breath, and the nurse notes that the IV tubing and needleless connector device are disconnected. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Rationale: A. Close the pinch clamp on the CVC: Clamping the catheter is important to stop further air entry, but placing the client in the proper position takes priority to trap the air and prevent it from reaching the pulmonary circulation. B. Obtain a prescription for stat ABGs: ABGs may help assess respiratory compromise, but they are not the immediate action. This diagnostic step should follow emergency interventions that prevent further complications from an air embolism. C. Place the client in left Trendelenburg position: This is the priority action because it helps trap any air in the right atrium and prevents it from entering the pulmonary arteries, reducing the risk of a fatal air embolism. Positioning the client correctly is a critical first step in managing suspected air embolism. D. Check the tubing for placement of a locking adaptor: Verifying equipment setup is important for preventing future incidents, but it does not address the client’s current critical condition. Immediate positioning takes precedence.