How should a nurse prioritize assessing clients on a busy shift?

Prioritizing client assessments based on the severity of their conditions ensures that the most critical patients receive timely care. In a busy shift, clients presenting with severe symptoms or those at risk for deterioration should be assessed first. This approach aligns with the principles of triage, where immediate attention is directed to those who are most vulnerable or whose health may rapidly decline without intervention.

Assessing clients based on the severity of their conditions also helps in effectively managing resources and ensuring patient safety. While it is important to consider factors such as time elapsed since the last assessment or the timing of medication administration, these factors are secondary to the immediate health risks presented by the clients. Prioritizing care based on clinical need ultimately leads to better outcomes and improves overall efficiency in the nursing workflow.