Final answer:
The nurse should prioritize obtaining vital signs to assess the patient's condition and determine the need for surgical intervention in the case of a patient with a peptic ulcer and a nasogastric tube experiencing sudden, severe upper abdominal pain, diaphoresis, and a firm abdomen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sudden, severe upper abdominal pain, diaphoresis, and a very firm abdomen in a patient with a peptic ulcer and a nasogastric (NG) tube may indicate a complication known as perforation of the ulcer. This occurs when the ulcer has penetrated so deep into the tissues that it causes a rupture in the wall of the stomach or duodenum. Perforation is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention to repair the damage.
The nurse should therefore prioritize the (b) Obtain the vital signs option. Obtaining vital signs will help assess the patient's condition and determine the urgency of the situation, as well as provide important information for the healthcare team to guide treatment decisions. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider and preparing for surgery will be essential if perforation is suspected.