Immediately after an abdominal paracentesis, which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

After an abdominal paracentesis, the most critical assessment for the nurse to prioritize is monitoring the client's blood pressure. This procedure involves the removal of fluid from the abdominal cavity, which can lead to shifts in fluid volume and potential complications. One major risk following paracentesis is the development of hypotension due to sudden changes in intra-abdominal pressure and fluid status.

Monitoring blood pressure allows the nurse to quickly identify any significant changes that might indicate complications such as bleeding or fluid shifts that could lead to shock. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for prompt intervention.

While assessing the client’s temperature, abdominal pain, and urine output are all important aspects of postoperative care, they do not carry the same immediate urgency in the context of complications arising from the paracentesis. Blood pressure is a direct reflection of the patient’s hemodynamic status and can provide the earliest indication of adverse effects from the procedure.