When a person is unable to communicate clearly due to confusion, what is the first action you should take?

When a person is unable to communicate clearly due to confusion, the first action you should take is to activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and/or your Emergency Action Plan (EAP). This is crucial because confusion can indicate a serious underlying issue, such as a medical emergency, that requires immediate professional assistance.

Activating EMS ensures that trained medical personnel are en route to assess and treat the individual, which is essential in situations where time is critical. The EAP also outlines specific steps to take in an emergency, ensuring that you respond effectively and efficiently. In cases of confusion, waiting for the person to regain composure or attempting to gather information about their symptoms could delay necessary medical evaluation and treatment, potentially putting the individual at greater risk.

Additionally, providing water might not address the underlying problem causing the confusion and could even be inappropriate if the person has a medical condition that affects their ability to swallow or if they require urgent care without delays. Therefore, activating EMS/EAP is the most prudent and responsible first action to ensure the best possible outcome for the individual.