The nurse is caring for a patient who had abdominal surgery yesterday and is receiving morphine through patient controlled analgesia (PCA). What action by the nurse is a priority?

Hip spica casts are typically used to immobilize the hip joint and are often used in the management of hip dysplasia or after surgery. These casts can cause restricted mobility and limit blood flow to the legs and feet, which can lead to complications such as swelling, decreased circulation, or pressure sores.

Checking capillary refill in the toes is a critical nursing intervention to assess for the presence of adequate circulation and blood flow to the affected limb. If capillary refill is slow or absent, it may indicate compromised circulation and require immediate intervention to prevent further complications.

Palpating a brachial pulse, assessing bilateral radial pulses, or auscultating the heart rate apically are not the priority nursing actions for an infant with a hip spica cast. While monitoring vital signs and circulation are important components of nursing care, the priority at this stage is to assess and manage the immediate postoperative needs of the patient, including monitoring for potential complications related to the hip spica cast.

In a client with minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS), the primary concern is the management of fluid volume and hydration status. MCNS is characterized by increased glomerular permeability, leading to excessive protein loss in the urine and subsequent hypoalbuminemia. This can result in fluid retention and edema formation, including facial edema.

Hypertension is a common complication in clients with MCNS, and it further contributes to fluid retention and potential complications. Therefore, closely monitoring the client's fluid volume and hydration status, including daily weights, intake and output measurements, and assessment of edema, is crucial to detect any changes and guide appropriate interventions.

While other actions, such as consulting with a registered dietitian about adequate intake or using sterile technique to prevent infections, may be important aspects of the client's care, they are not the priority in this situation. The immediate concern is managing the client's hypertension and fluid volume status to prevent complications associated with MCNS.