When treating an open chest wound, what is the first action you should take?

When treating an open chest wound, the first action to take is to expose the injury site. This step is crucial because it allows the responder to assess the extent of the injury, identify any potential life-threatening conditions, and determine the best course of treatment. By exposing the area, the lifeguard can look for signs of a pneumothorax, hemothorax, or any other serious complications that may require immediate intervention.

Once the wound is adequately exposed, the lifeguard can then apply a dressing or use appropriate methods to seal the wound if necessary. Recognizing the nature of the injury is essential for providing effective treatment and minimizing complications. The other options, while potentially part of the subsequent steps in management, should not be the first course of action, as appropriate assessment precedes any application of dressings or tape.