Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which of the following levels of human needs is the most basic according to Maslow's hierarchy?

1. Physiologic

2. Safety and security

3. Love, affection, and belonging

4. Esteem

The correct answer is: Physiologic

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the most basic level is the physiologic needs. These are fundamental requirements for human survival and include essentials such as air, food, water, warmth, rest, and sleep. Without these basic physiological needs being met, individuals cannot focus on higher-level needs such as safety, social connections, or esteem. Safety and security, while important, only become a priority after physiological needs are satisfied. Similarly, love, affection, and belonging represent social needs that can only be pursued once an individual has their basic and safety needs met. Esteem needs, which pertain to self-esteem and the esteem one receives from others, are the higher-level needs that individuals strive to fulfill once their more immediate needs are secured. Thus, understanding the hierarchy, one can see that physiological needs are the foundation upon which all other needs rest, making it essential to address them first in a healthcare setting.