Final answer:
The client with pneumonia is at the highest risk for developing septic shock due to the infection's common association with sepsis and its life-threatening complications. The correct option is B.
Step-by-step explanation:
The client at highest risk for developing septic shock among the ones listed would be b) A client with pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia is the most common infection associated with sepsis, which can lead to septic shock. Septic shock is a life-threatening condition where an overwhelming immune response to infection leads to dangerously low blood pressure and multi-organ failure.
Given the case studies, nosocomial infections and conditions such as necrotizing fasciitis also present significant risks. However, the most common source, according to medical literature, is respiratory tract infections like pneumonia.
Multiple factors such as virulence of the pathogen, patient's immune response, existing health conditions, and timely intervention determine the risk and progression towards septic shock.