A 54-year-old male with a history of cirrhosis and esophagea…
A 54-year-old male with a history of cirrhosis and esophageal varices is brought to the emergency department after vomiting large amounts of bright red blood. He continues to retch violently and has blood trickling from the corners of his mouth. On assessment, the patient is pale, diaphoretic, and anxious. Vital signs: BP 88/54 mmHg, HR 128 bpm, RR 28/min, SpO₂ 91% on room air. Which nursing action takes the highest priority at this moment?