Question

Which of the following patient problems is given the highest priority by the nurse using Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

a) Lack of social support
b) Low self-esteem
c) Difficulty breathing
d) Feeling lonely

Answer 1

According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, difficulty breathing is given highest priority over psychosocial needs, because addressing physiological needs is crucial for survival.

Step-by-step explanation:

When using Maslow's hierarchy of needs to prioritize patient problems, the nurse would give the highest priority to physiological needs, as these are considered fundamental for survival. According to Maslow, basic physiological and safety needs must be met before higher-level psychological and self-fulfillment needs can be addressed.

In the context of the options provided, difficulty breathing would be prioritized over lack of social support, low self-esteem, and feeling lonely, because it directly threatens the patient's physiological stability and immediate survival.