Which of the following is a priority assessment in a burn patient?

In a burn patient, the priority assessment focuses on breathing and airway patency because burns can cause significant airway compromise due to swelling, inhalation of noxious fumes, or damage to airway tissues. Immediately following a burn injury, especially if the burns are extensive or involve the face, neck, or upper chest, there is a high risk of airway edema that can develop quickly.

The ability to assess the airway and breathing is critical because any compromise can lead to respiratory distress or failure, which is life-threatening. Emergency management of burn patients requires that healthcare providers ensure that the airway remains open and that the patient is able to breathe adequately.

Other assessments, such as skin color and texture or hair and nail condition, while helpful in providing additional information about the patient's overall health and burn severity, do not take precedence over the assessment of breathing and airway. Appetite and thirst are also not primary concerns immediately after a burn injury as they do not directly impact survival and stabilization in the acute setting.