What should a PCA do if a patient says, "I am dizzy" when being helped to sit up?

When a patient expresses that they feel dizzy while being assisted to sit up, the appropriate response is to support the patient in a sitting position and wait. This approach is crucial because it acknowledges the patient’s discomfort and requires immediate attention to their stability. By supporting the patient, you help ensure that they do not fall or injure themselves, which is essential during moments of dizziness.

Allowing the patient to remain in a supported sitting position provides them with an opportunity to regain their balance and assess their condition. Monitoring their status during this time is also important; if symptoms persist or worsen, further actions can be taken.

In contrast, immediately laying the patient down could be an option but does not provide the chance for the patient to adjust to the sitting position, which might not be necessary if they begin to feel better. Providing water might not be appropriate as the dizziness could be caused by various factors, such as dehydration, but water should only be given if it's safe for the patient to drink at that moment. Calling for additional help may be warranted if the situation escalates or if you feel unprepared to manage the patient’s condition, but it should not be the immediate response when dealing with dizziness during position changes.