During the primary survey of an unconscious patient with multi-system trauma, the nurse notes snoring respirations. What priority nursing intervention should be performed next?

In the scenario of an unconscious patient with multi-system trauma exhibiting snoring respirations, the priority nursing intervention is to insert an oropharyngeal airway if there is no gag reflex. Snoring respirations suggest a partial obstruction of the airway, which can be caused by the tongue falling backward in an unconscious patient.

The oropharyngeal airway is a key tool in managing the airway in unconscious patients. By inserting this device, it helps to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue from obstructing the airway, allowing air to flow freely into the lungs. This intervention is critical to ensure adequate ventilation and prevent hypoxia.

While administering supplemental oxygen is important, it would be ineffective if the airway is obstructed. Ensuring a patent airway is always the first priority, particularly in an unconscious patient. Starting chest compressions is not indicated unless there is evidence of cardiac arrest, and calling for a respiratory therapist could delay necessary immediate action if the patient's airway isn't addressed first. Therefore, inserting an oropharyngeal airway is the most urgent and appropriate intervention in this situation.