What is the first action for a nurse caring for a burn victim upon arrival in the ED?

In the context of caring for a burn victim, establishing a patent airway is crucial and takes precedence as the first action upon arrival in the emergency department (ED). Burn injuries, particularly those that involve inhalation of smoke or superheated air, can lead to airway swelling, respiratory distress, or airway obstruction. If the airway is compromised, it can immediately threaten the patient's life, making it essential to ensure oxygenation as the top priority.

After securing the airway, other critical actions such as administering intravenous fluids, covering the burns with sterile dressings, and assessing vital signs are indeed important, but they can only be effectively carried out once the airway is confirmed to be patent and the patient is stable enough to proceed with additional interventions.