A nurse is caring for a client who has acute pulmonary edema. Which of the following is the priority nursing intervention?

Choice A reason: Administering an IV diuretic such as furosemide is important to reduce fluid overload, but it is not the immediate priority. Diuretics take time to act, and the client’s oxygenation must be stabilized first to prevent hypoxemia and respiratory failure. Choice B reason: Requesting an analysis of ABGs provides diagnostic information about oxygenation and acid-base status, but it does not directly improve oxygen delivery. This step is secondary to immediate oxygen administration. Choice C reason: Initiating oxygen via face mask is the priority because pulmonary edema severely impairs gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia. Oxygen administration provides immediate support to maintain tissue oxygenation while other interventions are prepared. Choice D reason: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter may be necessary for monitoring urine output when diuretics are administered, but it is not urgent compared to restoring oxygenation.