Final answer:
The nurse's priority should be to administer a prescribed analgesic before changing the client's dressing. Pain management is crucial for the comfort and care of the postoperative client. Noting signs of infection is important as they can lead to serious complications and must be treated promptly.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's priority action when caring for a client who experiences pain during a dressing change postoperatively should be to administer a prescribed analgesic before the dressing change. This will help to manage the pain associated with the procedure and ensure that the client is as comfortable as possible. Additionally, the nurse can ensure that the dressing change is done gently and carefully to minimize discomfort. While other options like using different dressing materials or explaining the importance of the change are relevant, they should not override the immediate need to manage the client's pain effectively.
It is important to watch for signs such as increased redness, swelling, and pain after a cut or abrasion has been cleaned and bandaged because they can be indicators of an infection. Infections can lead to complications like sepsis if left untreated, so timely identification and treatment are crucial.
In the clinical case provided, the physician's observation of redness and warmth, accompanied by the client's fever, suggested a localized infection. The appropriate response was to treat the site with a topical antiseptic, apply a fresh dressing, and prescribe an antibiotic.