Pain Management Nursing Practice Exam 2025 - Free Pain Management Practice Questions and Study Guide

The priority for this scenario should be on the patient with the vital signs indicating a pulse of 62 beats per minute, respirations at 10 breaths per minute, and blood pressure of 110/60 mmHg. These vital signs suggest urgent concerns that need immediate attention. A pulse of 62 is lower than the normal range, which may indicate bradycardia, and the respiration rate of 10 falls below the normal respiratory rate, pointing toward possible respiratory depression. This combination of bradycardia and hypoventilation can lead to inadequate oxygenation of the body's tissues and may indicate a compromised respiratory function.

In pain management, while severe pain and related symptoms like nausea can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, the dysfunction in vital signs can pose a more immediate threat to life if not addressed urgently. Therefore, the patient with abnormal vital signs is at heightened risk and needs prioritization in order to stabilize their condition, ensuring they receive necessary interventions quickly.