Question

Which assessment made by the nurse should be addressed first?

A. Reddened area to coccyx
B. Decreased urinary output
C. Shortness of breath
D. Drainage from surgical incision

Answer 1

Shortness of breath should be prioritized and addressed first due to the potential for life-threatening conditions, followed by other concerns such as decreased urinary output, drainage from the surgical incision, and a reddened area to the coccyx.

Step-by-step explanation:

In prioritizing which assessment made by the nurse should be addressed first, one should consider the immediacy and potential risk each situation poses to the patient. In this case, Shortness of breath (C) should be addressed before the other options as it can indicate a serious condition such as a pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, or an acute allergic reaction, which are potentially life-threatening and require immediate intervention. After ensuring the patient's respiratory status is stabilized, the nurse can then address the other assessments, with Decreased urinary output (B) being a potential indicator of renal issues or dehydration, Drainage from surgical incision (D) which might suggest infection or wound dehiscence, and Reddened area to coccyx (A) which can be the start of a pressure ulcer and needs to be managed early to prevent worsening.