The nurse realizes that which of the following stated client needs has the highest priority?

Question

1. A client's reaction to facial scarring after an automobile accident
2. A client who is crying hysterically upon hearing of her son's death
3. A homeless client's fear that his belongings will be stolen while he is hospitalized
4. An asthmatic client's concern regarding the lack of insurance to pay for her med-ications

Answer 1

ANS: 4
The second level of Maslow's hierarchy includes safety and security needs, which involve physi-cal and psychological security. The client's concern about securing the medication needed to minimize the potential for breathing problems has the highest priority of the options available.
The fourth level encompasses esteem and self-esteem needs, which involve self-confidence, use-fulness, achievement, and self-worth. Although important, a client's concern regarding her ap-pearance would not have priority over the other options available.
The third level contains love and belonging needs, including friendship, social relationships, and sexual love. Although important, a client's reaction to the loss of a loved one does not have pri-ority over the other options available.
The second level of Maslow's hierarchy includes safety and security needs, which involve physi-cal and psychological security. While the client's concern for the safety of his belongs is on the same level, it does not take priority over the client whose concern relates to potential breathing problems.