Answer: B.) A patient reporting a headache, photosensitivity, and a stiff neck.
Explanation: These are signs of possible meningitis, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The other patients have less urgent conditions that can be treated later.
To further elaborate:
The nurse in the emergency department should prioritize the patients according to the severity and urgency of their conditions. The patient reporting a headache, photosensitivity, and a stiff neck may have meningitis, which is a life-threatening infection of the brain and spinal cord. This patient should be seen first and isolated from others.
The patient with an elevated temperature, sore throat, and upper respiratory symptoms may have a viral or bacterial infection that could be contagious. This patient should be seen second and wear a mask.
The patient who cannot bear weight without pain who has a bruised, edematous ankle after playing basketball may have a sprain or fracture that needs to be immobilized and evaluated. This patient should be seen third and given pain medication.
The patient requesting ice chips for a sore throat and an earache may have a minor infection or inflammation that can be treated with over-the-counter medications. This patient should be seen last and advised to drink fluids and rest.
