A 66-year-old client in the ED presents with a 3-day history of nausea and vomiting. What is the acuity level?

The acuity level for a 66-year-old client presenting with a 3-day history of nausea and vomiting is typically classified as Acuity 3. This level indicates a moderate degree of urgency. While nausea and vomiting can be symptoms of various underlying conditions, the 3-day duration suggests that the patient may not be experiencing an immediate life-threatening situation but still requires evaluation and possible intervention.

In an emergency department, acuity levels are often determined by the potential for rapid deterioration or the need for immediate treatment. Acuity 3 is commonly assigned to conditions that are important to evaluate but are not immediately life-threatening. The presence of persistent symptoms over three days raises concerns about dehydration, potential electrolyte imbalance, or an underlying illness that should be addressed promptly, but it doesn’t indicate an acute emergency requiring immediate life-saving measures typical of higher acuity levels.