Which patient should the nurse see first based on the reported symptoms?

In the scenario presented, the priority is to assess the patient with an oxygen saturation of 88%. Oxygen saturation levels below 90% indicate potential hypoxemia, which can lead to significant complications if not addressed promptly. This situation requires immediate intervention to ensure the patient is receiving adequate oxygenation and to prevent further deterioration of their condition.

The presence of low oxygen saturation raises immediate concerns about respiratory function, perfusion, and the overall stability of the patient. A nurse's first action should be to assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation, and provide supplemental oxygen or other interventions as necessary.

The other patients' symptoms, while they may require attention, do not present an immediate threat to life in the same way. For instance, a headache can be symptomatic of various conditions but is usually not an acute emergency. A patient who cannot stop coughing may be experiencing discomfort or irritation but may not be at immediate risk of serious complications. Finally, an IV beeping typically indicates an issue with infusion, like a dislodged catheter or an empty bag, which warrants attention but does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk like low oxygen saturation does.

Thus, addressing the patient with hypoxia is crucial for immediate stabilization and is the highest priority in this situation