Upon receiving a report of multiple train accident victims, what is the nurse's first action?

The most appropriate first action for the nurse upon receiving a report of multiple train accident victims is to activate the agency disaster plan. This response is crucial because it ensures that the necessary protocols and procedures are initiated to manage the influx of patients effectively. Activation of the disaster plan mobilizes resources, staff, and equipment, and establishes a coordinated response, which is essential in a mass casualty situation.

By activating the disaster plan, the nurse ensures that all team members are informed and that established roles and responsibilities are defined promptly. This action also helps in setting up triage processes to assess and prioritize the care of victims based on their medical needs, which is critical in a situation where resources may be stretched thin.

While preparing triage rooms, making space for victims, or calling for assistance may also be important tasks, they should occur after the disaster plan has been activated. This structured approach allows for a comprehensive and organized response to manage patient care safely and effectively.