What steps should a nurse take in case of a medical emergency?

When responding to a medical emergency, the first step for a nurse involves assessing the situation to determine the extent of the emergency and what immediate actions are necessary. This careful evaluation is crucial because it allows the nurse to prioritize care based on the severity of the patient's condition.

Following the assessment, it is equally important to document the response. Documentation provides a clear, factual record of the nurse's observations and the interventions taken during the emergency. This record can be vital for ongoing patient care, legal purposes, and quality assurance, ensuring that all healthcare providers are informed of the situation and the actions that were taken.

This approach highlights the critical nature of both assessment and documentation in nursing practice, emphasizing that they work hand in hand to promote patient safety and effective communication within the healthcare team.