My DM has included exhaustion build-up on being downed, how does this effect healing priority?
I've joined a new table, and the DM has houseruled that being downed causes the victim to gain one level of exhaustion, up to the max.
Now, I actually like this rule. I personally think yo-yo healing is a dumb concept. Plus, as a life cleric enjoyer, I appreciate the thought that preemptive healing will be an effective strategy. I have a healing/support fantasy, and I feel this homebrew rule enables it.
However, I've never personally played with this rule. What are some comfy spots to actually start healing? I'm thinking the best thing for me to do is to focus on damage until someone gets bloodied. Is that too high or low of a bar? How much should I heal? Do I upcast cure wounds (the buff is so good) to the point they'll likely be max HP, or should I do the lowest spell slot that's comfy to use up?
I understand that the actual application of healing can differ case by case. Debuffs, enemy threat, positioning, etc. can all change the who, how, and whens of healing, but I've only really played when yo-yo healing was meta. I healed when someone was down or sometimes nearly down. I have my own ideas, but I'd love to hear advice from my peers as well!
So, how should I deviate from the yo-yo healing strats with this homebrew rule in mind? I'm still doing damage, but I'll prioritize my team when times get rough! Thank you. :D