A Patient with Acute Shortness of Breath Is Admitted to the Hospital

A patient with acute shortness of breath is admitted to the hospital. Which action should the nurse take during the initial assessment of the patient?

A) Complete a full physical examination to determine the systemic effect of the respiratory distress.
B) Obtain a comprehensive health history to determine the extent of any prior respiratory problems.
C) Delay the physical assessment and ask family members about any history of respiratory problems.
D) Perform a respiratory system assessment and ask specific questions about this episode of respiratory distress.