A nurse is caring for a client after a radical neck dissection. To which of the following should the nurse give priority in the immediate postoperative period?

A. Inspiratory stridor - This is associated with upper airway obstruction and is not indicative of a pneumothorax.

B. Expiratory wheeze - Wheezing is commonly associated with lower airway conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not pneumothorax.

C. Coarse crackles - Coarse crackles are typically heard in conditions such as pneumonia or pulmonary edema, not pneumothorax.

D. Absence of breath sounds - This is a key manifestation of a pneumothorax. The air in the pleural space can prevent the lung from fully expanding, leading to the absence of breath sounds on the affected side.

a. Turn the client so the cast will dry on all sides: While ensuring the cast is dry is important, the first priority following a surgical procedure is to assess neurovascular status to detect any

complications.

b. Remove the window and view the incision: Removing the window may compromise the cast's integrity, and the priority is to assess neurovascular status before inspecting the incision.

c. Medicate the client for pain: Pain management is important, but assessing neurovascular status is the initial priority to ensure there are no complications affecting circulation.

d. Perform neurovascular checks of the affected extremity: Neurovascular checks are the priority to detect any signs of impaired circulation or nerve function.