Four patients all require the attention of the nurse. Who should the nurse see first?

A 16-year-old with a pneumothorax complaining of shortness of breath

Explanation

•A patient with a pneumothorax that is experiencing shortness of breath needs immediate attention to prevent respiratory failure or other negative outcomes.

•A patient waiting to be discharged is stable and a low priority.

•Post surgical pain is expected and not an emergency.

•Ambulation should be encouraged, but it is not an urgent need.

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