A nurse is field-triaging clients after an industrial accident. Which client condition would the nurse triage with a red tag?

A. Dislocated right hip and an open fracture of the right lower leg is incorrect for red-tag triage because, while painful and requiring urgent care, these injuries are not immediately life-threatening. This client would typically be triaged as yellow (urgent but can wait a short time for treatment). B. Large contusion to the forehead and a bloody nose is incorrect because these are minor injuries that are not life-threatening. This client would be triaged with a green tag (delayed, “walking wounded”). C. Closed fracture of the right clavicle and arm numbness is incorrect because, although this is a concerning injury with possible nerve involvement, it is not immediately life-threatening. This client may also receive a yellow tag. D. Multiple fractured ribs and shortness of breath is correct because rib fractures combined with respiratory distress indicate a potentially life-threatening condition, such as flail chest or pneumothorax. These conditions can compromise oxygenation and circulation, requiring immediate intervention. In triage, red tags are assigned to clients who need life-saving care without delay.