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NCLEX Priority Questions: Master the ABC Framework


NCLEX priority questions are some of the most important items on the exam. They test your ability to decide which patient needs care first, which intervention is most critical, and how to apply safe nursing judgment under pressure. One of the most reliable tools for answering these questions correctly is the **ABC priority framework**—Airway, Breathing, Circulation.

Understanding this framework not only helps you answer NCLEX questions accurately but also strengthens your decision‑making as a real nurse. Here’s how to master ABC priority questions with confidence.

Why the ABC Framework Matters

The ABC method is used by nurses worldwide to identify life‑threatening problems quickly. Since NCLEX tests patient safety above everything, knowing how to apply ABC is essential. It helps you:

  • Prioritize critically ill patients
  • Identify what could kill the patient first
  • Avoid common delegation mistakes
  • Choose the safest intervention

What Are NCLEX Priority Questions?

These are questions asking:

  • “Who should the nurse see first?”
  • “Which action is the priority?”
  • “Which patient is at greatest risk?”
  • "Which finding requires immediate intervention?”

When you see keywords like **priority**, **first**, **immediate**, or **urgent**, think ABC immediately.

How to Apply the ABC Framework

  • 1. Airway A blocked or compromised airway is always the highest priority. Examples of airway emergencies:
    • Stridor
    • Choking
    • Severe facial trauma
    • Swelling after allergic reactions
    • Decreased consciousness with risk of obstruction
  • 2. Breathing If the airway is open, evaluate breathing next. Breathing concerns include:
    • Respiratory distress
    • Asthma exacerbation
    • Pneumonia breathing difficulty
    • Abnormal respiratory rate
    • Oxygen saturation below 90%
  • 3. Circulation Once airway and breathing are stable, assess circulation. Circulatory risks include:
    • Shock
    • Uncontrolled bleeding
    • Low blood pressure
    • Chest pain
    • Arrhythmias

NCLEX Delegation Tips Using ABC

When answering NCLEX delegation questions, apply ABC to decide what tasks the nurse must handle versus what can be delegated:

  • RNs handle assessments, unstable patients, and ABC threats.
  • LPNs handle stable patients with predictable outcomes
  • UAPs perform basic tasks like hygiene, vitals, and ADLs

Practice Example

Question

Which patient should the nurse see first?

  • 1. Which patient should the nurse see first?
  • 2. Post‑op patient with bright red bleeding on the dressing
  • 3. Child with asthma reporting difficulty exhaling
  • 4. Client with fever of 102°F Correct: **3 — Difficulty breathing (Breathing priority)** Although all patients need care, airway and breathing always come before circulation and fever.

Final Thoughts

Mastering **NCLEX priority questions** becomes much easier when you apply the **ABC priority** method consistently. Combine ABC with strong delegation skills, and you’ll answer even the toughest NCLEX items with clarity and confidence.

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