What should a nurse do if a patient becomes unresponsive during medication administration?

When a patient becomes unresponsive during medication administration, the appropriate action is to call for help and assess the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation. This response is critical as it prioritizes the safety and immediate health needs of the patient.

Assessing the patient promptly allows the nurse to evaluate whether the patient requires urgent interventions such as airway management or resuscitation. Establishing whether the patient is breathing adequately and has a pulse are vital steps in determining the appropriate course of action. If the airway is compromised, the nurse can initiate lifesaving measures immediately.

This approach aligns with the emergency protocols that emphasize the importance of assessing vital signs and ensuring the patient’s airway remains clear before proceeding with any further actions, including medication administration. It also activates a broader emergency response, bringing additional help and resources into the situation to ensure the best outcomes for the patient.

In contrast, continuing medication administration under these circumstances would compromise patient safety, and administering CPR immediately without establishing the need could lead to unnecessary harm if the patient is merely unresponsive but stable. Notifying the physician while waiting for instructions can delay critical interventions that are needed in an emergency situation. Therefore, assessing the patient’s condition and calling for help is fundamental in managing an unresponsive patient effectively.