A nurse just started her shift. Which of the following patients should be assessed first?

Explanation

•The correct answer choice describes the signs and symptoms common with a possible fat embolism, which is a medical emergency. Sudden shortness of breath and the appearance of petechiae are symptoms that warrant immediate attention.

Incorrect options:

•Wheezing is not out of the ordinary for a 25-year-old asthmatic.

•A patient who cannot sleep and a patient becoming restless from a BiPAP machine are low priority situations that can be delegated.

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