What initial step should be taken when managing respiratory distress due to poisoning?

Supporting the airway is a critical initial step in managing respiratory distress due to poisoning. In cases of respiratory distress, especially when caused by toxins, ensuring a patent airway is paramount. The body's ability to oxygenate tissues and remove carbon dioxide can be severely compromised, leading to life-threatening situations.

By prioritizing airway support, healthcare providers can facilitate effective ventilation and prevent further hypoxia. This may involve positioning the patient to optimize their breathing, using suction to clear any obstructions, or providing supplemental oxygen as needed.

While it might be necessary to call for advanced medical support or consider other interventions, airway management must take precedence to stabilize the patient's condition. Inducing vomiting is generally discouraged in cases of poisoning due to the risk of aspiration and further complication. Administering tranquilizers could also depress respiratory function, which is counterproductive in this scenario. Thus, supporting the airway is the foundational step to ensure a patient's safety and to prepare for further treatment.