When alerted by a call system alarm from another room, what is the nurse's first action?

The nurse's first action when alerted by a call system alarm from another room is to investigate the reason for the call bell alarm. This approach prioritizes the immediate need to understand the situation that prompted the alarm. In a clinical setting, an activated call bell typically indicates that a patient requires assistance, which can range from needing help with a basic task to indicating a medical emergency.

Investigating the reason behind the alarm allows the nurse to determine the level of urgency and respond appropriately. This action ensures a timely and tailored response to the patient’s needs, which is critical for patient safety and care. By understanding the context of the alarm, the nurse can decide if further intervention is necessary, such as providing assistance or alerting other staff members.

In comparison, completing an admission assessment or notifying the charge nurse might delay the response to the patient's immediate needs. While those actions are important in their own right, they do not directly address the situation that prompted the alarm. Checking on the client who activated the alarm is necessary but happens after the initial assessment of the alarm's cause has been made. Therefore, investigating the reason behind the call bell is the most appropriate first action to ensure responsive and effective nursing care.