During the extubation process, what is the first action to take?

The first action to take during the extubation process is to administer 100% oxygen. This step is crucial because it ensures that the patient is adequately oxygenated prior to removing the endotracheal tube. When the tube is removed, there's a risk of transient hypoxia due to the removal of a secure airway and potential airway obstruction.

Providing 100% oxygen serves to establish a high concentration of oxygen in the patient’s system, which can help mitigate any decrease in blood oxygen levels that might occur immediately after extubation. This approach is particularly vital if the patient has underlying respiratory issues or if there is uncertainty about their ability to maintain adequate oxygenation independently.

Suctioning the oro/hypopharynx would generally occur after ensuring the patient is stabilized post-extubation, and removing the securing method would typically be done at a later point in the process. Deflating the endotracheal tube cuff is also a later step, usually performed after ensuring that the patient has sufficient oxygenation and readiness for extubation.