A nurse is assessing a client in a Community Clinic. In accordance with Maslow's Hierarchy of needs, which of the following needs will the client seek to meet first?

Choice A rationale:

The choice "Patient ate half of his breakfast tray" is not the correct answer. While poor appetite or decreased intake can impact a patient's nutritional status, it is not a direct indicator of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice B rationale:

The choice "Patient has a raised erythematous rash below the knee" is not the correct answer. This might indicate a localized skin issue, such as an allergic reaction or dermatitis, but it is not a clear sign of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice C rationale:

The choice "Patient has a capillary refill of less than 2 seconds" is not the correct answer. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral circulation and is useful in evaluating perfusion, but it is not specifically indicative of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer is "Patient is incontinent of stool." Choice D is the correct answer. Incontinence, especially fecal incontinence, increases the risk of pressure ulcer development. Prolonged exposure to moisture from urine or stool weakens the skin's integrity, making it more susceptible to breakdown when pressure is applied over bony prominences.

Choice A rationale:

Love and belonging. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs outlines a pyramid of human needs, starting from basic physiological needs at the bottom and progressing to higher-level psychological and self-fulfillment needs. Love and belonging are higher-level needs, and individuals typically address them after their basic physiological needs are met. Basic needs like food, water, and shelter take precedence over higher-level emotional needs. In this case, the client's most immediate need would be to satisfy their hunger and thirst.

Choice B rationale:

Psychological security. Psychological security is another higher-level need related to safety and a sense of protection. While it is important, it is not the most immediate need according to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. The client would prioritize fulfilling their basic physiological needs before seeking psychological security.

Choice C rationale:

Self-actualization. Self-actualization is the highest level of need in Maslow's Hierarchy, encompassing personal growth, fulfillment, and achieving one's potential. It is a need that individuals pursue once their lower-level needs are satisfied. Since the question pertains to the first need the client would seek to meet, self-actualization is not the correct answer.

Choice D rationale:

Food and water. Food and water are fundamental physiological needs that form the base of Maslow's Hierarchy. These needs must be met before an individual can move on to addressing higher-level needs. Without addressing the need for sustenance, the client's ability to seek love, belonging, security, or self-actualization would be compromised.