The nurse assessing a patient who walked into the emergency department decides the patient is in no acute distress. Which patient condition would support the nurse's decision?

Question

1. Limping and walking with the assistance of a possible family member or friend
2. Gasping for breath and holding a bloody tissue to the nose
3. Ambulating, breathing without difficulty, possible right arm/shoulder pain because holding arm bent and close to body
4. Calling for help while limping with the use of a cane

Answer 1

3
Rationale 1: This patient has an obvious sign of illness or injury.
Rationale 2: This patient has an obvious sign of illness or injury that could progress to a more serious condition such as airway occlusion.
Rationale 3: Of the individuals described, the patient who is able to ambulate, breathe without difficulty, but might have right arm/shoulder discomfort would be the one with the least amount of distress.
Rationale 4: Limping and calling for help indicate the need for immediate assessment.