Who is the priority client for a nurse in a critical care setting?

In a critical care setting, the priority client is often determined by the immediacy of their needs and the potential for rapid deterioration. A client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy and reports tingling around their mouth is exhibiting signs that may indicate a potentially serious condition, such as hypocalcemia or nerve damage. This symptom is alarming because it could lead to complications such as tetany or airway compromise, which are medical emergencies.

The focus in critical care is on monitoring and responding to the most acute and potentially life-threatening situations. In this case, the tingling sensation is a significant clinical finding that requires prompt assessment and intervention. Maintaining airway safety and addressing potential complications are paramount in such scenarios, making this client the priority for the nurse's attention.

Other clients experiencing milder symptoms or scheduled for elective procedures, while still needing care, do not present the same level of urgency and potential for rapid clinical decline. Therefore, addressing the needs of the postoperative client reporting tingling takes precedence in a critical care context.