Skip to main content

NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam · Question

A nurse is caring for four clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

The client post-hip replacement complaining of new onset shortness of breath is the priority. New onset shortness of breath can indicate a serious and life-thre

Start free practice for NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam

300 questions · no signup required · 40 free questions per day

Start Practice →

Question: A nurse is caring for four clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

Answer options:

  • A 45-year-old client with stable angina reporting chest pain rated 2/10 after walking to the bathroom.
  • A 60-year-old client with diabetes whose blood glucose is 12 mmol/L before breakfast. ✅ A 70-year-old client post-hip replacement complaining of new onset shortness of breath.
  • A 30-year-old client scheduled for discharge awaiting transport.

Correct answer: A 70-year-old client post-hip replacement complaining of new onset shortness of breath.

Explanation: The client post-hip replacement complaining of new onset shortness of breath is the priority. New onset shortness of breath can indicate a serious and life-threatening condition such as pulmonary embolism, which requires immediate assessment and intervention. This is an ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) priority.

Start free practice for NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam

300 questions · no signup required · 40 free questions per day

Start Practice →

More about NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam

Related Questions

More for NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam candidates

Ready to practice?

Free, no signup required. Build a wrong-question list as you go.

Start Free NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam Practice →

Related courses

Other Canadian certifications candidates often prepare for alongside this one.