The triage nurse receives a phone call in an outpatient clinic. Which client should be advised to come to the emergency clinic today?

• A. The client who reports burning and pain upon urination.
• B. The client who calls is complaining of severe chest pain.
• C. The client who has had a stuffy nose and cough for 2 days.
• D. The client who needs a physical examination for football.

Answer: (A)

When a triage nurse handles a phone call, the priority is to spot red flags that require urgent in-person assessment. Burning and pain with urination can indicate a urinary tract infection, and while many UTIs are managed as outpatients, they can progress to more serious infections such as pyelonephritis or sepsis, especially in high-risk individuals (older adults, pregnant patients, immunocompromised, or men). Because progression can be rapid and early treatment is important, directing the client to come to the emergency clinic today for evaluation, urinalysis, and possible antibiotics is prudent. The other scenarios describe common, less urgent conditions (a viral-like upper respiratory symptoms and a routine football physical) that typically do not require ED care today.