The critical care nurse is planning patient care at the beginning of their shift (0730). Which of the following patient's should the nurse see first?

A. A patient with ulcerative colitis who has peripheral edema and complains of abdominal pain: While edema and abdominal pain are concerning and require monitoring, these symptoms are not immediately life-threatening. The nurse can assess this patient after higher-priority concerns are addressed. B. A patient with chronic kidney disease who is scheduled for dialysis at 0800: Timing is important, but this patient’s condition is stable and predictable, as dialysis is scheduled and not emergent. The nurse can prepare the patient while addressing more acute, potentially life-threatening conditions first. C. A patient with burns to their neck and chest who complains of throat pain: Throat pain in a patient with burns to the neck and chest raises immediate concern for airway compromise due to edema or inhalation injury. Airway obstruction can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, making this patient the highest priority for assessment and intervention. D. A patient with Crohn’s who reports frequent diarrhea with blood seen on the toilet paper: Frequent diarrhea and minor bleeding are concerning for fluid and electrolyte imbalance, but this is not as acutely life-threatening as a potential airway compromise.