What important information should be reported to a nurse regarding a patient?

Reporting a change in the patient's condition or behavior to a nurse is crucial because it directly impacts the patient's health and safety. Such changes could indicate worsening of a medical condition, an adverse reaction to medication, or other urgent concerns that may require immediate intervention. Accurate and timely communication of these changes enables healthcare professionals to make informed decisions regarding further assessments, adjustments to treatment plans, and necessary medical interventions to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.

While patient preferences for meals, likes and dislikes of staff, and upcoming appointments are valuable pieces of information for overall patient care and satisfaction, they do not typically warrant immediate reporting in comparison to changes in the patient's clinical status. The priority in a clinical setting is always to monitor and respond to any significant alterations in a patient’s health.