What is the first action you should take for a client experiencing autonomic dysreflexia?

In a situation where a client is experiencing autonomic dysreflexia, raising the head of the bed is a crucial first action. This condition is characterized by severe hypertension and bradycardia, primarily triggered by a noxious stimulus below the level of the spinal cord injury. By elevating the head of the bed, you facilitate a decrease in blood pressure and promote venous return, thus helping to stabilize the patient’s condition.

In addition to raising the head of the bed, immediate assessment and removal of the triggering stimulus is vital, which could range from bladder distention to a tight-fitting garment. While calling the doctor, administering medication, and assessing neurological status are important steps that follow, they do not address the acute risk of heightened blood pressure and potential complications as effectively as positioning the patient. Hence, elevating the head of the bed serves as a critical intervention in managing autonomic dysreflexia.