What should a nurse do first if a patient shows signs of an adverse reaction to a medication?

When a patient exhibits signs of an adverse reaction to a medication, the priority is to ensure the patient’s safety and provide immediate care. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately is critical because the provider can assess the situation more thoroughly, potentially order tests, and decide on the necessary interventions that could prevent further harm to the patient. This action can also initiate a response that may include discontinuing the medication, administering an antidote, or providing other forms of treatment depending on the severity and type of reaction.

While documenting the reaction is essential for maintaining accurate medical records and informing future care, it should not take precedence over ensuring the patient's immediate safety. Performing a head-to-toe assessment, while important for understanding the extent of the reaction, may delay notifying the healthcare provider who can provide targeted interventions more swiftly. Changing the patient’s medication without consulting the healthcare provider could lead to further complications or an exacerbation of the adverse reaction. Therefore, immediate communication with the healthcare provider is vital to ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.