The nurse is caring for several clients on the hospital respiratory unit and all require initial assessment following off-going shift report. In what numerical order will the nurse prioritize her assessments based on the following clients:
1. Elderly client with bacterial pneumonia, shortness of breath, and 102° temp.
2. 35-year-old client with tuberculosis and a cough.
3. 50-year-old client following lobectomy with chest tube asking for pain medicine.
4. 48-year-old client with emphysema needing scheduled medications who is not distressed.
A. 1, 3, 2, 4
B. 2, 3, 4, 1
C. 3, 1, 4, 2
D. 4, 1, 3, 2