Final answer:
The priority finding for the nurse to report is decreased oxygen saturation, as it is crucial for maintaining an adequate airway and preventing aspiration after a total laryngectomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The priority for the nurse to report to the provider is decreased oxygen saturation. Following a total laryngectomy, maintaining an adequate airway and preventing aspiration are of utmost importance. Recognizing signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia, such as a drop in oxygen saturation levels, is critical. It is the responsibility of the surgical team, which includes the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional, to ensure that the pulse oximeter is functioning properly and the patient's oxygen levels are monitored post-operatively. While other concerns like bleeding at the surgical site, urinary retention, and increased pain level are important, they do not take precedence over the client's ability to breathe adequately.