In a post-hurricane scenario, which client should the nurse assess first?

In a post-hurricane scenario, prioritizing patient assessment is critical, especially in situations where resources may be limited and immediate care is needed. The assessment should focus on clients presenting with critical conditions that could lead to severe health consequences if not addressed promptly.

The 7-year-old with status asthmaticus represents a life-threatening condition where the child is experiencing acute respiratory distress due to asthma exacerbation. Status asthmaticus is characterized by severe and persistent asthma symptoms that do not respond to standard treatment steps. This situation requires immediate intervention to prevent respiratory failure and other serious complications.

By prioritizing the child with status asthmaticus, the nurse ensures that the most critical health issue is addressed first. Other clients may also require attention; however, their conditions may not pose the same immediate risk to life as a severe asthma attack. Assessing the child first could significantly improve their chances of recovery and stabilization in an emergency setting where quick decisions are vital.