How does Maslow's hierarchy of needs apply to NCLEX prioritization?

Maslow's hierarchy ranks human needs from most basic to highest: physiological needs like oxygen, water, and food; safety and security; love and belonging; self-esteem; and self-actualization. On the NCLEX, physiological needs take priority over psychosocial needs. A patient who is hypoxic takes priority over a patient who is anxious about surgery. However, within the same level of need, prioritize the most unstable or acute patient. Maslow helps when ABCs do not clearly differentiate between patients, especially when choosing between physical and emotional needs in the same question.