Which pediatric patient should the nurse assess first?

In the situation presented, prioritizing care for the 1-month-old infant who is crying with retractions during inspiration is essential due to the signs indicating potential respiratory distress. Retractions during inspiration suggest that the infant is having difficulty breathing and is using accessory muscles, which often indicates an increased work of breathing or an obstruction in the airway. This can quickly lead to respiratory failure in an infant, whose respiratory reserve is limited.

Infants are particularly vulnerable to respiratory complications because they have smaller airways and less pulmonary reserve. The combination of crying and retractions is a clear indication that immediate assessment and intervention are needed to prevent a critical situation. Effective respiratory function is vital for oxygenation and overall health, making this case the highest priority among the options provided.

In contrast, the other patients, while requiring attention, do not present with an immediate life-threatening condition. The 5-year-old with pneumonia, though concerning, has a stable pulse oxygen saturation and may not need immediate intervention. The 10-year-old with diarrhea and vomiting shows an adequate potassium level and is not in an acute crisis, while the 15-year-old with diabetes has a slightly elevated blood glucose level but is not in a state of emergency. Thus, assessing the infant first is critical to