A nurse is caring for multiple clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

In this scenario, assessing the newly admitted client with acute coronary syndrome on a heparin infusion should be the nurse's priority. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a critical condition that requires immediate assessment and intervention due to the potential for life-threatening complications such as myocardial infarction (heart attack). The administration of heparin, an anticoagulant, further emphasizes the urgency, as it increases the risk of bleeding, and the client may be experiencing unstable hemodynamics or chest pain that demands prompt evaluation and management.

The other clients, while still requiring attention, present situations that are less time-sensitive. The client with a discharge prescription following heart failure exacerbation may need education and preparation for discharge but does not require immediate assessment. The post-operative client reporting burning at the indwelling catheter site suggests a potential issue, but this is typically not as urgent as assessing someone in a state of acute coronary syndrome. Lastly, the client needing a sterile dressing change three days post-operative also warrants care, but it can be scheduled after addressing the more critical condition of the ACS client.