Which of the following actions should be taken last during a lifeguard exit?

The action of lowering the victim face down on the deck should be taken last during a lifeguard exit because it ensures that the victim is not placed in a potentially dangerous position until they have been secured properly. Prior to this step, it's essential to first assist the victim to a more stable and safe position to prevent injury or further complications.

By rolling or dragging the victim clear of the water and lifting their waist to deck level first, the lifeguard can help the victim access safety more effectively. Placing the victim's hands on the deck is also a critical step that helps to ensure they have stability before any movements that could affect their safety.

Lifting the victim's waist to deck level allows for a safe transition and contributes to minimizing the risk of any aggravation of an injury while maneuvering. Therefore, the final action of lowering the victim face down is the appropriate choice for last, as it is the culmination of the previous stabilization steps and prepares the victim for further assessment or care on a stable surface.