A nurse is caring for a client who is 5 hours postoperative following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The nurse notes that the client's indwelling urinary catheter has not drained in the past hour. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason:
Bowel sounds are an important assessment to determine the return of gastrointestinal function after surgery. However, they are not the immediate priority following a cholecystectomy. The nurse will monitor bowel sounds to assess for ileus or obstruction, but this comes after ensuring that the patient's vital signs are stable.

Choice B reason:
Oxygen saturation is the priority assessment for a client being admitted from the PACU following a cholecystectomy. Ensuring adequate oxygenation is crucial after anesthesia, as respiratory function can be compromised. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps to detect hypoxemia early and prevent respiratory complications.

Choice C reason:
Inspecting the surgical dressing is necessary to check for signs of bleeding or infection at the surgical site. However, this is not the first priority upon admission from the PACU. The nurse will assess the dressing after vital signs and oxygen saturation have been addressed.

Choice D reason:
Temperature is an important vital sign that can indicate infection or other postoperative complications. However, the immediate priority is to ensure the client's airway and breathing are adequate, which includes assessing oxygen saturation before temperature.

Choice A reason:
The statement that symptoms can worsen with penile penetration during intercourse is partially correct. While sexual activity may exacerbate feelings of bulging or discomfort associated with uterine prolapse, it does not typically worsen the prolapse itself⁹. Painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is a common symptom of pelvic organ prolapse, which includes uterine prolapse.

Choice B reason:
Feeling a sensation of pressure in the pelvis is a classic symptom of uterine prolapse. As the uterus descends into the vaginal canal, it can create a sensation of fullness or pressure that is often noticeable and uncomfortable for the patient.

Choice C reason:
Low back pain is indeed a symptom that can be associated with uterine prolapse. The weakening of pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that leads to prolapse can also contribute to discomfort in the lower back.

Choice D reason:
The presence of feces in the vagina would not be a direct symptom of uterine prolapse. However, a related condition called rectocele, where the rectum bulges into the vagina, could cause such a symptom. This condition is different from uterine prolapse and would require separate management.