What should be the immediate priority for the 65-year-old client with burns and intubated at the scene?

The immediate priority for a 65-year-old client with burns who is intubated at the scene is fluid resuscitation. This is crucial because burn injuries can lead to significant fluid loss due to the damaged skin, which impairs the body’s ability to retain fluids. The risk of hypovolemic shock is particularly high in burn patients, especially with larger burn surface areas.

In this case, the client may also have limited respiratory function due to intubation, which can further complicate fluid balance and blood pressure. The proper assessment of burn size, depth, and the patient's overall condition is important for determining the appropriate volume and type of fluids to administer.

While pain management is also a critical aspect of care, it typically follows the stabilization of life-threatening conditions such as hypovolemia. Neurological monitoring can be important, but it becomes relevant after addressing immediate cardiovascular stability and fluid needs. Wound debridement is a critical component of burn care but is carried out later in the treatment process once the patient is stable. Thus, in the context of emergency management, fluid resuscitation takes precedence to prevent serious complications from inadequate circulation.