Why are class III clients considered of major concern in a hospital environment following a nuclear incident?

Class III clients are categorized as those who, in a triage situation, typically have non-life-threatening conditions and can wait for care. In the context of a nuclear incident, their ability to arrive at the hospital independently highlights an important aspect of disaster response. This self-transportation can impact hospital resources significantly during a situation where rapid assessment and treatment of more critically injured individuals (Classes I and II) is prioritized.

By coming on their own, Class III clients may increase the burden on hospital staff and resources. This influx can divert attention away from patients who require more immediate care, complicating the overall response and recovery efforts. Additionally, while these clients may not immediately appear to be in critical condition, their presence in a high-stress scenario like a nuclear incident can create tension, as healthcare providers must balance the needs of all patients within a limited capacity for treatment.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the primary concern regarding Class III clients in this scenario. Immediate surgical intervention is more relevant for Class I patients, while low survival rates are not characteristic of Class III clients, as they are not critically injured. The presence of family members, while providing support, does not inherently increase concern in the same manner that the self-directed arrival of a Class