What should a nurse do when a patient is experiencing a medical emergency related to a neurological change?

When a patient is experiencing a medical emergency related to neurological changes, calling for assistance immediately is the most critical action a nurse can take. This is because neurological changes often indicate potentially life-threatening conditions, such as a stroke, seizure, or increased intracranial pressure, which require prompt intervention from a multidisciplinary team.

By calling for help, the nurse ensures that additional healthcare professionals, such as doctors, respiratory therapists, or specialized nursing staff, can quickly respond to the situation. This collaborative approach allows for the rapid assessment and implementation of emergency protocols, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. The urgency of a neurological emergency necessitates that the nurse prioritize bringing in help before taking further actions, such as administering medication or reassessing vital signs, as timely intervention can be crucial in preserving neurological function.

In this scenario, while administering prescribed medication, reassessing vital signs, and documenting the situation are also important nursing actions, they should not take precedence over securing immediate assistance, which directly addresses the life-threatening nature of the situation.