What should a nurse do if a patient exhibits signs of a stroke?

In the event that a patient exhibits signs of a stroke, it is crucial for the nurse to call for emergency assistance immediately and perform an assessment. This approach is essential because a stroke is a time-sensitive medical emergency where every minute counts in terms of minimizing brain damage and optimizing recovery outcomes. By calling for emergency assistance, the nurse ensures that the patient receives advanced care as quickly as possible.

Performing an assessment allows the nurse to gather vital information about the patient's condition, such as the onset of symptoms, level of consciousness, and motor function. This information becomes instrumental in the emergency response team’s decision-making process for treatment options, including the possibility of thrombolytic therapy to dissolve clots if the stroke is ischemic.

Monitoring vital signs alone does not address the immediate need for intervention or faster medical response, while administering medication without proper assessment and emergency support could be dangerous. Waiting for the patient to stabilize before taking any action would further delay necessary treatment and could lead to worse outcomes. Therefore, prioritizing immediate assistance and thorough assessment is the most appropriate course of action for a nurse confronted with a potential stroke scenario.