If a construction worker is pulseless and apneic with an impaled steel rod in his leg, what is the first action you should take?

The correct action in this situation involves prioritizing life-saving measures for the pulseless and apneic construction worker. When a person is in such critical condition, controlling bleeding becomes a vital first step, as uncontrolled bleeding can lead to rapid deterioration and death. Starting CPR immediately following the control of bleeding also addresses the absence of pulse and respiration by providing artificial circulation and oxygenation until advanced medical care is available.

Stabilizing the steel rod is also significant, especially since removing it could exacerbate bleeding or cause further injury. However, the top priority remains controlling life-threatening conditions such as severe bleeding and cardiac arrest. Thus, the combined approach of controlling bleeding first followed by CPR can help stabilize the patient’s condition before further interventions, such as handling the impalement injury, take place.

Other options, such as removing the rod or immediately transporting the patient, do not prioritize the critical conditions of pulselessness and apnea, which could worsen if bleeding is not controlled first.