A nurse is the triage officer in the emergency department when four clients arrive following a factory explosion. Which of the following clients should the nurse care for first?
Correct Answer:
An unconscious adult client who has a sucking chest wound, respirations of 38/min, and capillary refill of
Rationale:
This is a life-threatening condition (tension pneumothorax or open chest injury). The client is breathing but needs immediate intervention (e.g., sealing the wound).
