Which client should a nurse in the emergency department address first?

The priority in an emergency department setting is often determined by the immediacy of physical and psychological harm. In this scenario, the client who claims to have been sexually assaulted an hour ago should be addressed first because this situation requires urgent care and intervention. Immediate assessment is essential for both medical treatment and psychological support.

This client may have physical injuries that need attention and is likely experiencing acute trauma as a result of the assault. Timely care can help with injury management, reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, and begin the process of psychological support, which is crucial for sexual assault survivors.

While the other clients have significant issues, they do not pose the same immediate life-threatening risks. Severe panic attacks can be distressing and debilitating, but they are not as time-sensitive as a recent sexual assault. Clients who have not taken their prescribed medication may need assistance, but unless there are acute symptoms manifesting from that non-compliance, it is not an emergency. Finally, deep feelings of worthlessness are concerning and merit attention, yet they may not require immediate intervention as urgent as that of a recent sexual assault.