Question

A nurse is caring for a client. A nurse is prioritizing client care. The nurse should first address the client's _______, followed by the client's _________.

Answer 1

In prioritizing client care, nurses address the most immediate and life-threatening needs (like airway, breathing, and circulation) first, followed by less critical needs. This approach is aligned with the principle of triage and involves collaboration among healthcare professionals for postoperative care planning.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question is focused on the priorities of client care in a nursing context. In prioritizing client care, a nurse should first address the client's most immediate and life-threatening needs, often referred to as "airway, breathing, and circulation" (ABCs), followed by the client's less critical needs such as comfort, pain management, and other psychosocial concerns. This approach is based on the principle of triage, which aims at timely and effective care to yield the best possible outcome for the patient.

For instance, if a patient is experiencing difficulty breathing, the nurse must prioritize interventions that stabilize the airway and ensure proper oxygenation before attending to less critical needs like mobility or hygiene. The prioritization is crucial in postoperative care, where recovery and monitoring are vital for preventing complications. During the review of key concerns, the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional are responsible for meticulously discussing and planning for the patient's postoperative care and potential needs.