Which action is essential immediately after a patient falls?

The essential action immediately after a patient falls is to document the incident in detail. Proper documentation serves multiple purposes: it provides a clear record of what happened, including the time, circumstances surrounding the fall, and the patient's condition immediately afterward. This record can be critical for legal, medical, and administrative reasons. It helps in understanding the context of the fall, which can aid in improving safety protocols and preventing future incidents.

Documentation also ensures that any changes in the patient's condition following the fall are noted, allowing for appropriate follow-up care and monitoring. Accurate records support effective communication among healthcare team members and help maintain consistency in care.

While conducting a full physical examination is important, it generally follows documentation to ensure that the incident itself is recorded accurately and promptly. Depending on the specific protocols of the facility, informing hospital administration may also be a necessary step, but immediate attention should be directed toward accurately documenting the incident to capture details before memories fade or conditions change.