Given the following vital signs, which should the nurse address first in the patient?

Choice A rationale
The vital signs presented in this choice are within the normal range. A blood pressure of 118/76 mm Hg is considered normal. A heart rate of 92/min is slightly elevated but still within the normal range (60-100 beats per minute). A temperature of 38.1° C (100.6° F) indicates a slight fever, which could be a response to an infection or inflammation. An oxygen saturation of 95% on room air is within the normal range (95%-100%).
Choice B rationale
The vital signs presented in this choice indicate that the patient may be experiencing a respiratory issue. A blood pressure of 126/84 mm Hg is slightly elevated but still within the acceptable range. A heart rate of 104/min is high, indicating that the heart is working harder than normal. A respiratory rate of 24/min is also high, suggesting that the patient may be having difficulty breathing. A temperature of 38.5 C (101.3* F) indicates a fever, which could be a response to an infection. An oxygen saturation of 92% on room air is below the normal range (95%-100%), suggesting that the patient is not getting enough oxygen. This is the vital sign that should be addressed first.

Choice A rationale
The Semi-Fowler’s position, while commonly used for patients with respiratory issues, is not the most effective position for relieving pain in acute pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
Lying prone with a pillow under the abdomen is not typically recommended for acute pancreatitis pain relief.
Choice C rationale
Lying supine with legs elevated and head on a small pillow is not typically recommended for acute pancreatitis pain relief.
Choice D rationale
Sitting in a chair, leaning forward with a pillow for back support, is often recommended for pain relief in acute pancreatitis. This position can help decrease the pressure on the abdomen and relieve pain.