The RN is using clinical judgment to determine which patient she needs to see first. What is one primary reason for prioritizing care?

Choice A reason: Assessment is the first phase of the nursing process, where the nurse collects data about the patient's health status, needs, preferences, and goals.

Choice B reason: Analysis/Diagnosis is the second phase of the nursing process, where the nurse interprets the data and identifies the patient's problems, risks, and strengths.

Choice C reason: Planning is the third phase of the nursing process, where the nurse develops a care plan that specifies the expected outcomes, interventions, and priorities for the patient.

Choice D reason: Implementation is the fourth phase of the nursing process, where the nurse executes the care plan and performs the interventions for the patient.

Choice E reason: Evaluation is the fifth and final phase of the nursing process, where the nurse measures the effectiveness of the interventions and compares the actual outcomes with the expected outcomes. Asking the patient about their pain level after giving pain medication is an example of evaluation.

Choice A reason: Tachycardia is a physiological response to fear and anxiety. Tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate is faster than normal, usually above 100 beats per minute. Fear and anxiety can trigger the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. This causes the heart to beat faster and stronger, increasing the blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles and organs. This prepares the body for the fight-or-flight response, which is a survival mechanism that helps the person to cope with a perceived threat or danger.

Choice B reason: Bronchial constriction is not a physiological response to fear and anxiety. Bronchial constriction is a condition where the airways in the lungs become narrow and inflamed, reducing the airflow and causing difficulty breathing. Bronchial constriction can be caused by various factors, such as asthma, allergies, infections, or irritants. Fear and anxiety can worsen the symptoms of bronchial constriction, but they are not the primary cause of it.

Choice C reason: Bradypnea is not a physiological response to fear and anxiety. Bradypnea is a condition where the breathing rate is slower than normal, usually below 12 breaths per minute. Bradypnea can be caused by various factors, such as brain injury, drug overdose, sleep apnea, or metabolic disorders. Fear and anxiety can increase the breathing rate, not decrease it, as the body needs more oxygen to cope with the stress.

Choice D reason: Pupillary constriction is not a physiological response to fear and anxiety. Pupillary constriction is a condition where the pupils in the eyes become smaller and less responsive to light. Pupillary constriction can be caused by various factors, such as eye injury, medication, aging, or neurological disorders. Fear and anxiety can cause pupillary dilation, not constriction, as the pupils widen to allow more light and improve the vision. This helps the person to see better and react faster to the situation.