The nurse is working on a busy unit that is short-staffed. Which of the following patient assessments is the highest priority?
1.
A patient with chest pain radiating to the left arm and diaphoresis
2.
A confused patient crying out for her husband who died several years ago
3.
A patient with an elevated temperature requiring an antipyretic
4.
A postoperative patient in severe pain
5.
A patient who is to be discharged tomorrow and needing self-care teaching
ANS: 1
The patient with chest pain is the highest priority because altered circulation takes priority over everything except airway and breathing problems.
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