After performing a physical assessment and obtaining vital signs for a client immediately after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which nursing intervention is the priority?

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11ecbb05_c98f_60f5_b433_f1d67f21dfa6_MD0009_00 Postoperative nursing care after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy focuses on prevention of complications. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is used to inflate and expand the abdominal cavity during laparoscopic procedures to allow insertion of surgical instruments and better visualization of the abdominal organs. CO₂ can irritate the phrenic nerve and diaphragm, causing shallow breathing and referred pain to the right shoulder. referred pain The nurse should assist the client with early ambulation and deep breathing to facilitate dissipation of the CO₂ used during surgery (Option B). Early ambulation not only improves breathing but also decreases the risk of thromboembolism and stimulates peristalsis. (Option A) Anti-embolism stockings help prevent the development of deep vein thrombosis, but early ambulation is more effective at thromboembolism prevention and is therefore the priority intervention. (Option C) Stool softeners may prevent postoperative constipation caused by surgical anesthetics and opioids, which contribute to decreased peristalsis. However, early ambulation promotes bowel motility and reduces constipation. (Option D) After laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the client should maintain a clear liquid diet until bowel sounds return. After obtaining an order from the health care provider, the nurse should advance to a low-fat diet and educate the client on weight reduction and maintaining a low-fat diet. Educational objective: The priority of care after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the prevention of complications. Early ambulation helps prevent complications by: improving breathing and reducing discomfort from the carbon dioxide used to expand the abdomen during surgery; decreasing the risk of thromboembolism; and stimulating peristalsis/bowel motility.

After Performing a Physical Assessment and Obtaining Vital Signs for a Client