What should be the first action taken in case of respiratory distress in a pediatric patient?

Administering oxygen is the first action to take in a pediatric patient experiencing respiratory distress because it directly addresses the primary problem: inadequate oxygenation. When a child is in respiratory distress, the immediate goal is to ensure that they receive sufficient oxygen to support vital organ functions. By administering oxygen, you can quickly help improve oxygen saturation and tissue perfusion, which is crucial during an emergency situation.

The other options, while important in specific circumstances, do not directly address the immediate need for oxygenation. Activating emergency medical services is essential if the situation deteriorates, but the priority should be to provide oxygen first. Performing chest compressions is only necessary if the patient goes into cardiac arrest, and providing rescue breaths is a more advanced intervention that assumes the airways are clear and there's no obstruction. Therefore, the straightforward step of administering oxygen takes precedence in managing respiratory distress.