What is the priority nursing intervention for a client whose Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) has decreased from 14 to 12?

When a client's Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score decreases from 14 to 12, it indicates a decline in the level of consciousness and a potential increase in neurological distress. In this situation, the priority nursing intervention is to notify the primary healthcare provider.

This course of action is crucial because a decrease in GCS signifies that the client may be experiencing worsening brain function or an underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention. By promptly informing the healthcare provider, appropriate assessments and interventions can be initiated to further evaluate the client's neurologic status and determine the necessary treatment.

While continuous assessment every 15 minutes is important for monitoring, the most critical step is to ensure that the healthcare provider is made aware of the client's deteriorating condition to facilitate timely intervention. Administering medication such as acetaminophen with codeine may not address the underlying issue linked to the decreased GCS and stimulating the client could be inappropriate if the underlying cause is serious or neurological. Thus, prompt communication with the healthcare provider remains the priority to ensure patient safety and care continuity.