Which client should be assessed first according to priority of care?

The client with increasing chest pain frequency should be assessed first because this symptom may indicate a worsening cardiac condition, such as unstable angina or an impending myocardial infarction. Chest pain is a critical sign that requires immediate attention, as it can signal that the heart is not receiving enough oxygen, which could lead to serious complications if left unaddressed.

In healthcare settings, prioritization of care often revolves around conditions that pose the greatest immediate risk to life. Increasing frequency of chest pain signals a potential escalation in severity, making it a priority over other reported symptoms. Stable angina suggests that the patient has a predictable pattern of chest pain that can usually be managed with medication or rest, while pitting edema, although important, does not represent an acute emergency. Similarly, hypertension without distress might indicate a need for monitoring but does not necessitate immediate intervention compared to the potential crisis presented by increasing chest pain.