On scene, frantic family members direct you into the basement, where their 67dash–yeardash–old mother has shot herself in the chest with a small handgun. she is unresponsive and breathing six times a minute. the gun remains in her hand, which came to rest lying on her abdomen as she lies supine. what action should you take immediately?

The correct answer is "pick up the gun by the edge of the grip and carefully remove it."

Before assessing the airway, breathing, and the circulation of the trauma patient; one should first survey the scene before performing basic life support. The gun is a potential harm in doing first aid for this patient as the patient's reflexes, involuntary hand movements, or spasms can accidentally pull the trigger and hurt more people.