Final answer:
The nurse must observe the dressing for bleeding and check the vaginal packing to manage potential bleeding and promote healing. Elevating the lower extremities is also essential for postoperative care to reduce the risk of complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
When planning the care for a patient who just had a vaginal hysterectomy with anterior and posterior repair, it's essential for the nurse to maintain a focus on recovery and prevent complications. The option C. Observe dressing for bleeding is critical as postoperative bleeding is a potential risk after such surgery. Monitor the dressings for signs of excessive bleeding, which could indicate hemorrhage. The option A. Check vaginal packing is also important because vaginal packing may be used to help control bleeding and promote healing; the nurse should check the integrity and position of the packing as prescribed. Lastly, elevating the lower extremities may aid in reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis and improve circulation, making option B. Elevate lower extremities another key component of postoperative care. Sitz baths may be initiated postoperatively, but typically not until at least 24 hours after surgery, so start sitz baths tomorrow morning is less immediate in the plan of care.