Question

A nurse is planning care for a client following collection of admission date. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority client need?

A. the client requests to see a priest for spiritual guidance
B. the client reports coughing and a change of voice whenever he eats
C. the client reports pain immediately following physical therapy

Answer 1

The priority client need is the symptom of coughing and a change of voice when eating, as it suggests possible aspiration, which is a life-threatening condition that must be addressed immediately.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify coughing and a change of voice whenever the client eats as the priority client need. These symptoms could indicate aspiration, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when food, saliva, liquids, or vomit is inhaled into the lungs. The other options, while important, do not represent immediate life-threatening situations. The client's request for spiritual guidance and reports of pain following physical therapy are needs that should also be addressed, but after managing the priority which is ensuring the client’s airway is not compromised.