After blunt chest trauma from a motor vehicle accident, what is the first nursing priority for the client?

In the context of blunt chest trauma, the first nursing priority is to assess the client's airway. Following any significant trauma, particularly in incidents such as motor vehicle accidents, there is an immediate risk for airway compromise. The mechanism of injury can lead to various complications such as hematomas, fluid accumulation, or direct obstruction, all of which can pose a threat to the client's ability to breathe properly.

Airway management is critical because a compromised airway can quickly lead to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation, which may endanger the patient’s life. Therefore, confirming the patency of the airway and ensuring the client can breathe effectively takes precedence over other interventions. Once the airway is secured, the nurse can then shift focus to managing pain, promoting deep breathing exercises, and addressing any issues with the chest wall. Prioritizing airway assessment aligns with basic emergency care principles, which emphasize stabilization of life-threatening conditions first.