According to Maslow's hierarchy, which nursing problem should be addressed first for a pediatric patient with cleft palate?

• A. Psychological well-being
• B. Nutritional status
• C. Pain management
• D. Mobility

Answer: (B)

In Maslow’s framework, meeting physiological needs lays the foundation for all other growth and development. For a child with a cleft palate, feeding can be challenging because the palate gap affects suction and increases energy use, leading to inadequate intake, dehydration, or poor weight gain. Prioritizing nutritional status ensures the child receives adequate calories and fluids necessary for growth, healing, and overall stability, which then supports effective progress in other areas like pain control, psychological support, and mobility. While pain management, emotional well-being, and mobility are important, they can be addressed once the child’s basic nutritional needs are secured.