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Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The NCST Reading Comprehension section (2021 RDS blueprint) assesses the candidate’s ability to read, understand, and accurately interpret written policies and procedures. This includes identifying the exact sequence of actions required without adding outside knowledge. The passage clearly states that officers “must immediately notify the control center” when an inmate is missing, making this the first required step. Options A and B are conditional actions that occur later depending on whether the inmate is foundor not, while D is not mentioned as the first step. This objective is critical because corrections officers must follow written directives precisely to maintain security, accountability, and institutional safety. Misordering steps during counts can delay response to potential escapes or create unnecessary alerts. The official study guide emphasizes strict adherence to the text, focusing on keywords such as “immediately,” “first,” and “must.” Mastering this skill supports on-the-job training where officers are expected to apply policies accurately under time pressure. (NCST Blueprint – Reading Comprehension objectives).