The pediatric nurse received report and will be caring for four patients. The nurse prioritizes care and chooses to assess which patient first?

Rationale: A. Patient 1 – 6-year-old with oral lesions from varicella receiving IV fluids: While poor oral intake requires monitoring and IV fluid support, the child’s vital signs and overall status do not indicate immediate life-threatening risk. Assessment is important but not the highest priority. B. Patient 2 – 14-month-old with meningitis on day 5 of IV antibiotics: This patient is stable mid-course in treatment, showing no acute changes. Ongoing monitoring is necessary, but there are no current signs of decompensation requiring immediate attention. C. Patient 3 – 6-month-old with hypoplastic left heart syndrome 5 days post-Glenn procedure, O₂ saturation 85%: Low oxygen saturation post-cardiac surgery is a critical finding indicating hypoxemia, which can quickly lead to deterioration. Assessing this patient first is essential to prevent respiratory or cardiac compromise. D. Patient 4 – 3-year-old with Kawasaki Disease experiencing chest pain and increased pulse: Chest pain and tachycardia are concerning and require prompt evaluation; however, the post-operative cardiac patient with hypoxemia (Patient 3) has an immediate threat to life, making them the highest priority.