A nurse is triaging clients in the emergency department. Which of the following clients should the nurse ask the provider to care for first?

A. Adolescent with sickle cell pain (7/10) Needs prompt treatment, but not as life-threatening as airway obstruction. B. Toddler with asthma and SpO₂ 95% on 2L O₂ Stable oxygenation; not an immediate emergency. C. Toddler with otitis media and fever Infection is concerning but not life-threatening. D. Child with acute epiglottitis, drooling, no cough These are classic signs of airway obstruction. Airway management is the priority—this is life-threatening.