Pathophysiology · practice question

A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to neurologic injury. Assessment data include temperature 102.2°F (39°C), heart rate 126/min, blood pressure 86/50 mm Hg, and confusion. Using ABCs and Maslow, which need should the nurse address first?

Multiple choiceHardnclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026pathophysiology

Long-term teaching before treating acute physiologic risk.Visitor concerns before physiologic stability.Pain relief before checking airway and breathing.Airway, breathing, and circulation problems before comfort or psychosocial needs.

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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A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to neurologic injury. Assessment data include temperature 102.2°F (39°C), heart rate 126/min, blood pressure 86/50 mm Hg, and confusion. Using ABCs and Maslow, which need should the nurse address first?

Correct answer

Why

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