Question

a nurse is assisting with the admission of a client who is postoperative following laparoscopic abdominal surgery. which of the following assessments should the nurse identify as the priority? observe the clients breathing pattern. auscultate bowel sounds. determine the clients ability to void. check incision sites for indications of infection.

Explanation:

Using the ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) priority - setting framework, breathing is a higher - priority assessment than bowel sounds (related to digestion), ability to void (related to urinary function), or checking for infection (a later - stage assessment in the immediate postoperative period).

Answer:

Observe the client's breathing pattern.