A patient on the third postoperative day after subtotal gastrectomy complains of severe abdominal pain and rigidity. What should the nurse do first?

In the scenario where a patient is experiencing severe abdominal pain and rigidity on the third postoperative day after subtotal gastrectomy, the most appropriate initial action is to obtain the client's vital signs. This step is crucial because vital signs can help assess the patient's current physiological status and detect any signs of complications. Abdominal rigidity and severe pain can be indicators of serious conditions such as internal bleeding, anastomotic leak, or infection, which may require urgent intervention.

Vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature, can provide critical information. For instance, tachycardia or hypotension may indicate shock, while febrile responses can suggest infection. Being aware of these changes will guide further interventions and inform the healthcare provider of the urgency of the situation.

While notifying the physician, administering pain medication, or preparing for surgery are all important considerations in managing postoperative complications, they should follow the initial assessment of vital signs in this context. By first measuring the vital signs, the nurse obtains essential baseline data that will be vital in determining the next steps in the patient's care.