An emergency department (ED) nurse receives a report that an incoming patient has a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8. Which is the most appropriate action by the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A GCS score of 8 indicates a significantly decreased level of consciousness and may indicate a potentially life-threatening condition. The priority action for the ED nurse is to assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation to ensure the patient is stable and receiving adequate oxygenation. Pain management and obtaining a complete history can wait until after the patient's immediate needs are addressed. Triage of the patient with other ED patients is not appropriate in this situation; the patient requires urgent assessment and intervention.

An Emergency Department (ED) Nurse Receives a Report That an Incoming