In a fire evacuation situation, which patient group should the nurse prioritize for evacuation?

In a fire evacuation situation, prioritizing patients who are ambulatory and receiving oxygen is crucial for several reasons. This patient group has the ability to move and evacuate with assistance, which can significantly contribute to their safety during an emergency. While they may require oxygen support, their ability to ambulate allows for quicker relocation to a safe area compared to those who are bedridden or in critical care, who may be more challenging to move.

Patients who are bedridden and stable generally require much more time and effort for evacuation due to their inability to assist in their own movement. Additionally, patients in critical care are often the most vulnerable and require consistent monitoring and specialized equipment, making their evacuation complex and time-consuming. Patients in isolation rooms may also be at risk because their conditions might involve precautions that complicate quick access and transport.

In contrast, the ambulatory patient can be moved more rapidly, ensuring that they are out of harm’s way while still receiving necessary oxygen support, making them the most logical choice for prioritization in a fire evacuation situation.