The nurse is caring for a patient who was hit on the head with a hammer. The patient was unconscious at the scene briefly but is now conscious upon arrival at the emergency department (ED) with a GCS score of 15. One hour later, the nurse assesses a GCS score of 3. What is the priority nursing action?

Rationale: A. This is incorrect because simply stimulating the patient hourly is insufficient. A rapid decline from GCS 15 to 3 indicates a life-threatening neurological emergency that requires immediate intervention. B. This is correct because a sudden drop in GCS from 15 to 3 suggests severe neurological deterioration, possibly from an epidural or subdural hematoma, intracranial hemorrhage, or increased intracranial pressure. Prompt notification of the primary care provider or ED physician is essential for immediate assessment and possible emergency interventions such as imaging, surgery, or advanced airway management. C. Elevating the head of the bed is a supportive measure to help reduce intracranial pressure, but it is not the priority in the face of rapid neurological decline. Immediate medical evaluation takes precedence. D. Continuing to monitor the patient without action is incorrect because the patient’s condition is critical. Delaying intervention could result in permanent brain injury or death.