In an emergency where an auto-injector is available, what is the determination you should make before using it?

In an emergency situation where an auto-injector, such as an epinephrine auto-injector for severe allergic reactions, is available, assessing whether the person is responsive is critical. If the individual is responsive, it indicates that they are aware of their surroundings and likely able to communicate their symptoms and needs, which is essential for the proper use of the auto-injector.

Furthermore, a responsive person can provide information about allergies, the severity of their symptoms, and other important health details that can influence treatment. In cases where the person is unresponsive, administering the auto-injector may not be appropriate, as they may be unable to swallow or correctly use it themselves, leading to further complications.

Considering the other options, while aspects like breathing and appropriate dosage are important in different contexts, the first step in this scenario is establishing the person's responsiveness. A person who cannot respond may require alternative interventions before the use of an auto-injector can be safely considered. Thus, determining the responsiveness of the individual is a foundational step in the emergency response process involving auto-injectors.