The nurse assesses a postoperative client with an abdominal wound and finds the client drowsy when not aroused. The client’s pain is ranked 2 on a scale of 0 to 10, vital signs are within preoperative...

The nurse assesses a postoperative client with an abdominal wound and finds the client drowsy when not aroused. The client’s pain is ranked 2 on a scale of 0 to 10, vital signs are within preoperative range, extremities are warm with good pulses but skin is very dry. The client declines oral fluids due to nausea, and reports no bowel movement in the past 2 days. Hip dressing is dry with drains intact. Which element is most likely to be considered of high priority for a change in the current care plan?

 1. Pain

2. Nausea

3. Constipation

4. Potential for wound infection