The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The nurse should assess for which priority problem?

A) Fatigue
B) Bradypnea
C) Hypertension
D) Fall risk

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a chronic condition that causes fatigue; however specific respiratory muscle fatigue leading to braypnea is the priority safety risk. Respiratory muscle fatigue can lead to bradypnea, decreased ventilation, and eventually cessation of breathing which is the condition of highest importance with this illness. Hypertension is not a high priority problem specifically related to ALS. While the patient is a fall risk due to overall skeletal muscle fatigue, respiratory depression is the priority safety risk.