What should you do if you observe a change in a patient’s condition?

When you observe a change in a patient’s condition, promptly reporting the changes to a nurse is crucial for patient safety and effective care. Nurses are trained to interpret these changes and take appropriate actions, which may include further assessment, intervention, or adjustments to the care plan. Timely reporting ensures that the patient receives the necessary attention and medical response before their condition potentially worsens.

Monitoring the patient for further changes is important but should not replace the immediate step of reporting to a nurse. Documenting the change in the care plan or consulting the patient’s family are also essential aspects of patient care; however, these actions should follow the initial step of notifying a nurse, who can evaluate the situation more comprehensively and determine the best course of action.