Final answer:
The nurse should first assess the patient for consciousness, breathing, and pulse when an alarm for ventricular tachycardia sounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an EKG monitor alarms for ventricular tachycardia (VT), the first action a nurse should take is to assess the patient. This includes checking if the patient is conscious, has a pulse, and is breathing. In a case where ST depression and resolved chest pain were observed.
The EKG changes of VT must be taken seriously as they could signify a potent potentially life-threatening condition. If VT is confirmed and the patient is unresponsive or displaying signs of instability, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated.
Preparations for defibrillation should be made swiftly. An automated external defibrillator (AED) should be used as advised in the provided instructions, which can guide even nonmedical personnel in an emergency.