What action is essential for the nurse to take when a client presents with altered mental status following a traumatic incident?

Assessing vital signs is crucial when a client presents with altered mental status following a traumatic incident. Vital signs provide essential information about the client’s physiological status and can indicate the severity of the condition. This assessment can reveal whether the client is experiencing shock, hypoxia, or other complications that require immediate intervention.

In the context of trauma, changes in vital signs may signal significant underlying issues, such as internal bleeding or neurological impairment, which necessitate prompt medical attention. Early identification of these problems can be vital for ensuring that the client receives appropriate care and can help guide further interventions.

While offering water, performing a complete medication review, or documenting the client's history may be relevant in other situations, they do not address the immediate need to assess the client's current physiological state, which is critical in the context of trauma and altered mental status.