Question

The nurse working on a high-acuity medical-surgical unit is prioritizing care for four patients who were just admitted. Which patient should the nurse assess first?

Answer 1

When prioritizing care for four patients, the nurse should assess the patient with the highest acuity first, considering vital signs, level of consciousness, and signs of distress.

Step-by-step explanation:

When prioritizing care for four patients who were just admitted, the nurse should assess the patient with the highest acuity first. Acuity refers to the severity and complexity of a patient's condition. In this case, the nurse should assess the patient who requires the most immediate attention or has the highest risk of deterioration. This could be determined based on factors such as vital signs, level of consciousness, or any potential signs of distress.

It's important to note that acuity can vary depending on the individual patient's condition. For example, a patient with unstable vital signs and difficulty breathing may require immediate assessment and intervention. On the other hand, a patient with a stable condition may be assessed later as long as their condition does not deteriorate.

In summary, the nurse should prioritize the assessment of the patient with the highest acuity, considering factors such as vital signs, level of consciousness, and signs of distress.