Principles of Prioritization

Question 1

Clinical Judgement

Answer 1

Observed outcome of critical thinking & decision-making

Question 2

What aspects of nursing knowledge are used in clinical judgement?

Answer 2

Observe & assess presenting situation

Identify a prioritized client concern

Generate the best evidence-based solutions in order to deliver safe care

Question 3

Prioritizing

Answer 3

Deciding which needs or problems req immediate action and which ones could tolerate a delay in action until a later time because they are not urgent

Question 4

Principles of Prioritization

Answer 4

Evaluating & weighing each competing task or process using the following criteria:
-Is it life threatening or potentially life threatening if the task is not done?
-Would another patient be endangered if this task is done now or later?

-Is this task or process essential to patient or staff safety?

-Is this task or process essential to the medical or nursing plan of care?

Question 5

Levels of Priority Setting

Answer 5

ABC : Airway, Breathing, Circulation

Safety & Risk Reduction

Acute vs. Chronic/Unstable vs. Stable/Urgent vs. Nonurgent

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

The Nursing Process (ADPIE)

Least Restrictive/Least Invasive

Question 6

Example of Systemic vs Local Prioritization

Answer 6

Prioritize a client in shock over a client w/local injury

Question 7

Example of Acute vs. Chronic Prioritization

Answer 7

Prioritize a new injury/illness or an acute exacerbation over a chronic illness

Question 8

Example of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Prioritization

Answer 8

Prioritize the client needs such as nutrition over self-esteem