What should be the first step after a procedure is completed?

The first step after a procedure is completed is to document the procedure. Proper documentation serves multiple critical purposes in patient care and medical practice. It ensures that there is a clear and accurate record of what occurred during the procedure, including details about the techniques used, any complications encountered, and the patient's response. This record is vital for continuity of care, as it provides information that other healthcare providers will rely on in future interactions with the patient.

Additionally, documentation is an essential element for legal protection and quality assurance, as it can serve as a reference in case of any disputes or inquiries regarding the care provided. It also contributes to the medical facility's compliance with regulatory standards and helps in the overall assessment of clinical outcomes.

In this context, while it is important to check the patient’s vital signs, prepare instruments, and eventually discharge the patient, these actions should typically follow the documentation process to ensure that all relevant information is captured while it is fresh and can be accurately recorded.