Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Simulated
A nurse is prioritizing care for a client. Which of the following procedures should the nurse perform first?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Endotracheal suctioning. This procedure should be prioritized as it is essential for maintaining the client's airway patency and preventing respiratory complications. Endotracheal suctioning helps remove secretions that may obstruct the airway and impede oxygenation. Failure to perform this procedure promptly can lead to respiratory distress or compromise the client's breathing. Urinary catheter care (A), wound irrigation (B), and enteral feeding (C) are important aspects of care but do not take precedence over airway management. Prioritizing endotracheal suctioning ensures the client's respiratory needs are addressed first before attending to other care tasks.