In a CVA patient, what is the first step a nurse should take?

In the case of a patient who has experienced a stroke, which is also referred to as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), the immediate priority is to ensure the patient's safety and stabilize their condition. Calling the provider immediately is critical because the management of a CVA is time-sensitive. Quick intervention can significantly influence the patient's outcomes and reduce the risk of further complications.

Once the provider is contacted, they can guide the necessary assessments and interventions that need to follow, including potential imaging studies, medication administration, and other urgent treatments based on the type and severity of the stroke. Prompt communication with the healthcare team ensures that the patient receives the appropriate care as quickly as possible, which is vital in minimizing the effects of the stroke and improving recovery chances.

All other actions, while important in the broader context of managing a stroke patient, are secondary to the immediate need for reporting the situation to a medical provider. For instance, monitoring vital signs is essential but can often be done concurrently with notifying the provider. Initiating DVT prophylaxis or administering analgesics might be part of the care plan, but these steps depend on the provider's orders and the specifics of the case. Thus, contacting the provider stands out as the critical first step in managing a patient with a