Which principle is prioritized when addressing client needs in nursing care?

The focus on "Air, breathing, Circulation" highlights one of the most fundamental principles in nursing care, which is based on the physiological needs of clients, often referenced in the context of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. When addressing client needs, nurses must prioritize life-sustaining functions. This principle underscores the importance of ensuring that the client has adequate oxygen (air), is breathing effectively, and has proper circulation, as these are critical for survival and overall functioning.

In nursing practice, addressing the airway, breathing, and circulation is often considered the priority because if these basic physiological needs are not met, it can lead to severe consequences, including death. This principle guides nurses in providing immediate interventions to stabilize clients, ensuring that higher-level needs can later be addressed once physiological stability is achieved. Thus, this principle serves as the foundation for all nursing care, ensuring that the most critical health needs are prioritized first.