A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute with shallow respirations and cyanosis indicates significant respiratory distress and inadequate oxygenation. The client's airway needs to be assessed and cleared to ensure a proper flow of air into the lungs. This can involve positioning the client appropriately, providing manual or mechanical assistance with ventilation, or using other airway management techniques as necessary.

While administering oxygen to the client and placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger are important interventions to improve oxygenation and monitor oxygen saturation, they should not delay the immediate priority of establishing a patent airway.

Checking the client's pulse rate is also important and should be done in a timely manner, but it should not take precedence over ensuring a clear and open airway for the client.

Hypertensive crisis is a severe increase in blood pressure that can lead to organ damage or other complications. Prompt assessment and intervention are necessary to prevent further escalation of blood pressure and potential complications.

While all the clients mentioned require attention, the client with elevated blood pressure and a headache poses a higher immediate risk. The nurse should assess the client's blood pressure, evaluate for signs of target organ damage, and initiate appropriate interventions, which may include administering antihypertensive medications as prescribed and monitoring closely for any changes in the client's condition.

The client who is postoperative and reports intermittent nausea can be assessed and managed after addressing the client with the elevated blood pressure and headache.

The client scheduled for surgery in 2 hours can be addressed according to the scheduled timeline.