During your initial assessment of a semiconscious 56-year-old man, you should:

During your initial assessment of a semiconscious 56-year-old man, you should Ensure a patent airway and support ventilation as needed.

Assessing a patient's level of consciousness is an essential component of a neurological examination, which is usually performed alongside an assessment of pupil size and reaction, vital signs and focal neurological signs in the limbs. It is important to determine the level of unconsciousness first the evaluation of the patient, searching carefully for hints as to the cause of the confusion or coma.