Final answer:
The priority action a nurse will take for a patient experiencing left shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause. It may involve encouraging range of motion exercises or providing comfort measures and medical intervention depending on the cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
The priority action a nurse will take for a patient experiencing pain in the left shoulder depends on the underlying cause of the pain. If the pain is due to a musculoskeletal issue, such as an injury or strain, the nurse may encourage the patient to perform range of motion exercises, as this can help alleviate pain and improve joint mobility.
If the pain is due to a more serious condition, such as referred pain from a heart attack, the nurse will need to assist the patient with comfort measures and prioritize medical intervention.
It is important for the nurse to assess the cause of the pain and consult with the healthcare team to determine the appropriate priority action for the specific patient.