What is the nurse's immediate priority in post-operative care?

In post-operative care, the immediate priority is to monitor respiratory status. This is crucial because the administration of anesthesia during surgery can lead to respiratory complications, including airway obstruction, hypoventilation, or respiratory depression. Monitoring respiratory status allows the nurse to identify any issues early, such as changes in breathing patterns, oxygen saturation levels, or the presence of abnormal lung sounds.

While assessing the wound dressing, checking vital signs, and administering pain medication are all important components of post-operative care, they follow the priority of ensuring adequate respiratory function. A compromised airway or inadequate ventilation can have immediate and serious consequences, so close observation of the patient's respiratory status is essential in the early stages of recovery.