What is the first step to take if a tick is embedded in the skin?

The correct answer involves slowly pulling out the tick with tweezers. This method is recommended because it allows for the safe removal of the tick without leaving behind parts of the mouth or body that could lead to infection. Using fine-tipped tweezers facilitates a grasp close to the skin's surface, which increases the likelihood of removing the tick in its entirety. It’s important to pull steadily and directly outward, as jerking or twisting the tick can increase the risk of disease transmission.

Starting the removal process in any other way, such as pulling quickly with fingers, could risk breaking the tick and leaving parts embedded in the skin. Applying ice might numb the area, but it does not assist in the actual removal process. Using a needle can be dangerous and is not a standard method for tick removal, as this can potentially cause more harm and does not ensure the tick is completely extracted. Thus, utilizing tweezers and a careful pulling approach is the most effective and recommended method for safely removing an embedded tick.