Adult health / medical-surgical nursing · practice question
A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for pneumonia with increased work of breathing. Assessment data include blood glucose 420 mg/dL with acetone breath and Kussmaul respirations. Using ABCs and Maslow, which need should the nurse address first?
Multiple choiceEasynclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026adult-health-med-surg
Answer and explanation
Correct answer
D. Airway, breathing, and circulation problems before comfort or psychosocial needs.
Why
Physiologic stability and ABCs take priority over comfort, teaching, or psychosocial needs when the client is unstable.
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