Which child should a triage nurse prioritize in the emergency department after a school bus crash?

Prioritizing a child who reports diplopia (double vision) and nausea is critical in the context of a school bus crash, as these symptoms may indicate a head injury or concussion, which can have serious implications if not addressed promptly. Diplopia suggests potential neurological damage or increased intracranial pressure, while nausea could be associated with a concussion or other conditions related to head trauma.

In emergency situations, the focus is on identifying life-threatening conditions or those that could rapidly deteriorate if not treated quickly. While the other children may be experiencing discomfort or minor injuries, such as a minor cut on the arm, a sprained ankle, or just emotional distress from the event, their conditions are less likely to result in immediate physical harm compared to the potential complications that could arise from the neurological symptoms presented by the child with diplopia and nausea.

Therefore, the child experiencing these symptoms requires immediate evaluation and intervention to rule out or manage any significant injuries, making them the priority in triage.