Pediatric nursing · practice question
A 2-year-old toddler in the emergency department is being evaluated for dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. Assessment data include capillary refill 4 seconds with dry mucous membranes and sunken fontanelle. Using ABCs and Maslow, which need should the nurse address first?
Multiple choiceMediumnclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026pediatric-nursing
Answer and explanation
Correct answer
C. 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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