An LPN is caring for four clients. Which client should the LPN see first?

Priority-setting questions are heavily tested on NCLEX-PN. Use the ABC framework: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. The client with new-onset shortness of breath and chest pain has potential airway/breathing/circulation compromise — this could be MI, PE, pulmonary edema, or another life-threatening emergency. This client is assessed FIRST. Other clients have non-urgent needs: (1) Pain medication can wait a few minutes for the priority assessment; (2) Hygiene assistance is important but not urgent; (3) Discharge teaching is also important but not urgent. Maslow's hierarchy is another tool: physiological needs (especially airway, breathing, circulation) come before safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. When multiple physiological needs compete, ABC + life threats first. Always ask: 'Which client is at greatest risk of harm in the next 5-15 minutes?' That client is first.