What is the priority assessment for a nurse to perform on a client returning from the recovery room postmastectomy?

The priority assessment for a client returning from the recovery room postmastectomy is to assess vital signs and oxygen saturation levels. This is crucial because after surgery, patients are at risk for complications such as respiratory distress, hypotension, and altered oxygenation. Monitoring vital signs helps to identify any immediate life-threatening issues.

In the recovery phase, ensuring that the client is stable involves checking their heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation levels. These indicators provide insight into the client’s overall cardiovascular and respiratory status and can highlight the need for immediate intervention if abnormalities are detected.

While assessing the surgical dressing, evaluating pain levels, and checking urinary output are also important components of post-operative care, they do not take precedence over monitoring vital signs. Complications can manifest quickly after surgery, and timely identification through vital signs can prevent serious outcomes.