A nurse is caring for a client who is cyanotic and has a respiratory rate of 8/min with shallow respirations. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

A. While monitoring oxygen saturation is important, ensuring an open airway takes priority. B. Administering oxygen is important, but ensuring an open airway is the initial priority. C. Checking the pulse rate is important, but ensuring an open airway is the initial priority. D. Correct. Establishing a patent airway is the most critical action for a client with compromised breathing and cyanosis.