What should a caregiver do first when a patient falls?

When a patient falls, the first priority is to assess the patient for injuries. This is crucial because immediate evaluation allows for the identification of any potential injuries such as fractures, head trauma, or internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent. Ensuring the patient's safety and determining their condition takes precedence over other actions.

Reassuring the patient verbally may be important to stabilize their emotional state following the fall, but it should not come before assessing their physical condition. Likewise, putting the patient back into bed or notifying the doctor can only be appropriately determined after understanding the extent of any injuries. Thus, a comprehensive assessment helps guide the next steps in care and ensures that the patient receives the proper attention based on their specific needs after the fall.