Final answer:
The first priority when observing a wound evisceration is applying a sterile, moist dressing to the area, followed by monitoring vital signs and other medical interventions as decided by the healthcare team.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client who had abdominal surgery reports that "something gave way" after sneezing, and a wound evisceration is observed, the first priority is applying a sterile, moist dressing to the area. This helps protect the eviscerated organs by keeping the tissue moist and reducing the risk of infection until surgical repair can be performed. Following this, it is essential to monitor vital signs, as changes may indicate a significant physiological response to the evisceration. The healthcare team, including the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional, will then review the situation and decide on further actions, which may include inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube and putting the client on nothing-by-mouth (NPO) status to prepare for potential surgery and minimize complications such as gangrenous inflammation and infection.