The client presents to the emergency department (ED) complaining of chest pain, fatigue, and dyspnea. The priority assessment for the ED nurse includes assessing the client's:
1. Airway and oxygen status.
2. Medications.
3. Chest pain.
4. Activities.
Airway and oxygen status.
Rationale: The priority assessment should be to first assess the airway and oxygen status of the client, with the goal to maintain an open airway and adequate oxygen levels. The next focus would be on assessing the client's pain to determine the client's description of the pain, its location, and its intensity. Assessing the client's activities will provide clues as to what brought on the pain. The client's medications will provide insight into the client's past medical history as well as potential adverse effects from the medications.
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