In a mass casualty situation, which client should receive care first?

In a mass casualty situation, the primary objective is to triage patients based on the severity of their condition and the need for immediate medical intervention. The correct choice, focusing on the client with diminished breath sounds and paradoxical chest movement, indicates a life-threatening injury that requires immediate attention.

Diminished breath sounds can suggest serious respiratory complications, such as a pneumothorax or significant lung injury, which can lead to respiratory failure if not addressed promptly. Paradoxical chest movement—where a section of the chest wall moves in the opposite direction during respiration—often indicates severe chest trauma, such as flail chest or a severe rib fracture, which compromises the ability to breathe effectively.

Addressing life-threatening conditions such as these is paramount in a triage system, as they pose an immediate risk to the patient's survival. Patients with less severe or non-life-threatening conditions, such as a headache and mild fever, an ankle sprain, or disorientation without evident respiratory distress, can afford to wait longer for care. Prioritizing care for those most at risk maximizes the chances of survival in a mass casualty scenario.