Question

A nurse on a pediatric unit has received change-of-shift report for 4 children. Which of the following children should the nurse assess first?

a) Child with a history of asthma complaining of mild shortness of breath

b) Child with a recent appendectomy reporting mild abdominal pain

c) Child with a fractured arm requesting pain medication

d) Child with diabetes experiencing increased thirst and urination

Answer 1

The nurse should assess the child with diabetes experiencing increased thirst and urination first due to the potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes. The child with a history of asthma complaining of mild shortness of breath, child with a recent appendectomy reporting mild abdominal pain, and child with a fractured arm requesting pain medication can be assessed afterward as their conditions are not life-threatening.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should assess the child with diabetes experiencing increased thirst and urination first. This could be a sign of hyperglycemia and may require immediate attention. Diabetes is a condition that needs careful monitoring and can have serious complications if not managed properly.

In comparison, the child with a history of asthma complaining of mild shortness of breath may require assessment and intervention, but their symptoms are less urgent than the potential complication of uncontrolled diabetes.

The child with a recent appendectomy reporting mild abdominal pain and the child with a fractured arm requesting pain medication can be assessed after the child with diabetes, as their conditions are not life-threatening.