In an emergency department, an experienced RN is coordinating care for four clients: a 78-year-old with a suspected hip fracture who is stable and awaiting X-ray, a 4-year-old with a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) and mild ear pain, a 47-year-old with chest pain radiating to the jaw and diaphoresis, and a 22-year-old with a laceration that has been irrigated and is ready for suturing. The charge nurse must assign an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) and a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to help manage the workload. Which client should the RN prioritize for immediate personal reassessment?
- The 47-year-old with chest pain radiating to the jaw and diaphoresis
- The 22-year-old with an irrigated laceration ready for suturing
- The 4-year-old with a fever and mild ear pain
- The 78-year-old awaiting X-ray for a suspected hip fracture