The nurse at an ambulatory care clinic is participating in an active shooter drill. The shooter is rapidly approaching the nurse's location and the nurse cannot get to an exit. What next best action is appropriate?

Choice A reason: Taking vital signs and pulse oximetry readings is a task that can be safely delegated to an experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). This task involves routine monitoring and does not require clinical judgment or decision-making, making it appropriate for UAPs to handle.

Choice B reason: Checking the ventilator settings requires specific knowledge about ventilator operation and adjustments. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse or respiratory therapist to ensure the settings are correct and appropriate for the client's condition.

Choice C reason: Observing if the client's endotracheal tube needs suctioning requires clinical assessment and judgment to determine the necessity and frequency of suctioning. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse who can evaluate the client's respiratory status and make appropriate decisions.

Choice D reason: Assessing the client's respiratory status involves comprehensive evaluation of the client's breathing, lung sounds, and overall respiratory function. This task requires clinical judgment and should be performed by a licensed nurse who can interpret the findings and respond appropriately.

Choice A reason: While evacuation is typically the first course of action during an active shooter situation, it is not feasible if the shooter is rapidly approaching and exits are not accessible. In such scenarios, finding a safe place to hide is a better immediate response.

Choice B reason: Hiding in a room with no windows is an appropriate action when the shooter is nearby, and evacuation is not possible. Locking the door, turning off lights, and remaining silent can increase the chances of avoiding detection by the shooter. This response prioritizes immediate safety.

Choice C reason: Attacking the shooter should only be considered as a last resort when there are no other options for escape or hiding, and one's life is in imminent danger. It is not the next best action in this scenario when hiding is a viable option.

Choice D reason: Calling emergency services is crucial, but if the shooter is rapidly approaching, immediate action to protect oneself by hiding takes precedence. Once in a secure location, contacting emergency services should follow.