A nurse receives report on four patients. Which patient should the nurse assess first?

Question: A nurse receives report on four patients. Which patient should the nurse assess first?

Answer options:

• A patient with chronic stable angina reporting chest pressure 2/10.
• A postoperative patient 8 hours post-op with a temperature of 37.5 C (99.5 F). ✅ A patient with asthma reporting increased wheezing and shortness of breath.
• A diabetic patient whose morning blood glucose is 8.5 mmol/L (153 mg/dL).

Correct answer: A patient with asthma reporting increased wheezing and shortness of breath.

Explanation: Increased wheezing and shortness of breath in an asthma patient indicate a potential respiratory emergency, requiring immediate assessment and intervention.