NCLEX Question of the Day

March 4, 2026

Management of Care QID 1306

The nurse is caring for four pediatric clients. Which client requires the most immediate assessment?

A:
A 6-month-old infant with bronchiolitis who has nasal flaring and sternal retractions.
B:
A 5-year-old child postoperative appendectomy with hypoactive bowel sounds.
C:
A 2-year-old child with a fractured femur in traction reporting pain rated 4/10.
D:
A 10-year-old child with type 1 diabetes whose blood glucose is 150 mg/dL before lunch.

Explanation

The 6-month-old infant is exhibiting signs of significant respiratory distress (nasal flaring, sternal retractions), indicating compromised breathing. According to airway, breathing, circulation (ABCs) principles, this client is the highest priority for immediate assessment and intervention to prevent respiratory failure. The child with the fracture needs pain management but is hemodynamically stable. Hypoactive bowel sounds are expected post-appendectomy. The child with diabetes has a blood glucose level within an acceptable pre-meal range and does not require immediate intervention.

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