In completing an assessment on an assigned client, the nurse obtains i

In completing an assessment on an assigned client, the nurse obtains important information for planning nursing care. Which of the following client needs should take priority?

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Financial problems
3. A nutritional deficit
4. An impending divorce

ANSWER

ANS: 1
Difficulty breathing would be the highest priority client need. In general, priorities that protect clients’ basic needs of safety, adequate oxygenation, and comfort are considered high priority. Financial problems are a low-priority client need. Financial problems are not directly related to a specific illness or prognosis but may affect the client’s future well-being. A nutritional deficit is an intermediate priority client need. It involves a non–life-threatening need of the client. An im-pending divorce is a low-priority client need. It is a need that is not directly related to a specific illness or prognosis but may affect the client’s future well-being.