Question

The nurse receives report about these clients. Which client does the nurse see first?

1. A client just transferred from the emergency department with an oxygen saturation of 93% on 2 liters of oxygen per nasal cannula. 2. A client who reports nausea while drinking contrast in preparation for a CT scan.
3. A client who is a new direct admission from the health care provider's office with a hemoglobin of 6.9 g/dL (69 g/L).
4. A client who reports abdominal pain and is requesting pain medication.

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize the client with a critically low hemoglobin of 6.9 g/dL (option 3). This condition can lead to severe hypoxia and requires immediate intervention to prevent complications such as organ failure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Which Client Should the Nurse See First?

Among the clients listed, the nurse should prioritize based on the severity and potential for rapid deterioration of the patient's condition.


Considering the information provided:

1. Client with an oxygen saturation of 93% on 2 liters per nasal cannula is stable at the moment.
   
   
2. Client experiencing nausea from contrast is uncomfortable but not in immediate danger.
   
   
3. Client with a hemoglobin of 6.9 g/dL is critically low and could be at risk of severe complications such as hypoxia and organ failure. This patient is likely suffering from anemia and requires urgent attention.
   
   
   
4. Client requesting pain medication for abdominal pain needs to be assessed, but it is not as critical as severe anemia.

The nurse should see the client with a hemoglobin of 6.9 g/dL first, given the critical nature of their condition and the urgent need to restore adequate oxygenation to tissues to prevent further complications.