Final answer:
The critical first step of treatment for a patient with CHF is administering diuretics. Diuretics help remove excess fluid from the body and improve symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The critical first step of treatment for a patient with CHF is: c) Administering diuretics
Diuretics are medications that help remove excess fluid from the body, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure.
These medications help reduce the workload on the heart and improve symptoms such as shortness of breath and swelling.
Once a patient with CHF has been stabilized with diuretics, other medications and treatment options may be considered to further manage the condition.