Upon finding a client unresponsive on the floor, what is the nurse's first action?

In the scenario of finding an unresponsive client, the initial action should involve attempting to ascertain whether the client is truly unresponsive. By shouting the client's name, the nurse is assessing the client's level of consciousness and responsiveness, which is critical in determining the appropriate next steps in care. This step is essential because it not only assesses the immediate state of the client but also serves as a basic safety measure before proceeding to further interventions like checking for breathing or pulse.

This action is in line with emergency protocols where the first response to a potential emergency situation involves verifying the situation without making assumptions. If the client responds, the nurse can then perform a focused assessment and intervene accordingly. If there is no response after attempts to rouse the client, the nurse can then move on to next steps, such as assessing respiratory effort or starting a Code Blue if indicated.

The priority in such situations is to first confirm the unresponsiveness and presence of any vital signs, setting the groundwork for appropriate life-saving interventions that may follow.