The nurse has received the following report on four clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

Question: The nurse has received the following report on four clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

Answer options:

• A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with an SpO2 of 92% on 2 L/min oxygen.
• A client 2 days post-appendectomy reporting pain rated 4/10 and asking for oral analgesia. ✅ A client with diabetes mellitus who reports feeling lightheaded and whose blood glucose was 3.2 mmol/L 15 minutes ago.
• A client with a urinary tract infection (UTI) who has a temperature of 38.0°C and reports mild dysuria.

Correct answer: A client with diabetes mellitus who reports feeling lightheaded and whose blood glucose was 3.2 mmol/L 15 minutes ago.

Explanation: A blood glucose level of 3.2 mmol/L indicates hypoglycemia, which can rapidly worsen and lead to seizures or loss of consciousness. This is an acute, life-threatening situation requiring immediate intervention. The other clients are stable or have less urgent needs.