Which theory would likely guide a nurse leader in prioritizing care for a client with severe vitamin B12 deficiency?

Maslow's Theory is centered around a hierarchy of needs, which posits that individuals are motivated to fulfill their basic needs before addressing higher-level needs. In the context of a nurse leader prioritizing care for a client with severe vitamin B12 deficiency, this theory is particularly relevant. The deficiency can lead to a range of serious health issues, affecting physiological functions, neurological stability, and overall well-being.

By using Maslow's framework, the nurse leader can identify that the client’s physiological needs, such as proper nutrition, are the most urgent and must be addressed first. By ensuring that the client receives the appropriate interventions—such as vitamin B12 supplementation or dietary changes—the nurse is effectively addressing the foundational needs that are critical for the client’s health and recovery. Once these basic needs are stabilized, higher-level needs regarding safety, social support, and psychological well-being can then be considered in care planning.

This theory guides a systematic approach to prioritize care based on the urgency of the client’s physiological needs, making it the most suitable option in this scenario.