What should a nurse monitor closely for in a client who has just undergone a radical nephrectomy?

Monitoring for signs of hemorrhage is crucial in a client who has just undergone a radical nephrectomy due to the surgical nature of the procedure, which involves the removal of a kidney and surrounding tissues. This type of surgery is invasive and can potentially lead to significant blood loss.

Postoperative care includes being vigilant for signs of internal or external bleeding, which may manifest as a drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, changes in level of consciousness, or visible blood in the surgical drain or urine. Early identification of hemorrhage is vital to prevent complications such as shock and to initiate appropriate interventions promptly.

While fluid retention, high blood pressure, and fever can be concerns in the postoperative setting, they are not as immediate or critical as assessing for hemorrhage. Fluid retention might indicate kidney function issues or fluid overload, high blood pressure could develop from pain or stress, and fever may reflect an infection. However, recognizing and addressing potential hemorrhage takes precedence in the immediate recovery phase following a radical nephrectomy.