What should the nursing supervisor perform first after a resident falls?

After a resident falls, the most crucial step for the nursing supervisor is to perform an assessment of the resident. This is essential because it allows the healthcare provider to determine the extent of any injuries or complications resulting from the fall. An immediate assessment helps identify any signs of trauma, such as fractures or head injuries, which may not be visibly apparent right away.

Conducting a thorough assessment includes checking vital signs, evaluating the resident's level of consciousness, and examining any affected areas. This step is vital to ensure the resident’s safety and wellbeing, as it informs subsequent actions such as whether emergency medical services need to be called or if the resident can be safely moved.

Other actions, such as assisting the resident to the commode or calling the family, should occur after an assessment to ensure that the resident's health is prioritized and to inform family decisions based on the resident's condition. While notifying the family is important, it should come after assessing the situation to provide them with accurate information regarding the resident's status. Calling an ambulance would also depend on the findings of the assessment. Therefore, prioritizing the resident's assessment is critical in managing the situation effectively and safely.