A post-surgical client is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress. What is the nurse's best initial intervention?

The best initial intervention for a post-surgical client exhibiting signs of respiratory distress is to ensure the client's position is upright. Positioning the client upright can significantly enhance lung expansion and improve respiratory mechanics. This position can facilitate easier breathing by allowing maximum expansion of the thoracic cavity and may help relieve pressure on the diaphragm.

In cases of respiratory distress, time is crucial. An upright position can provide immediate relief and is often a first-line approach before further interventions. It can also help to promote airway patency, especially if the distress is due to fluid accumulation, atelectasis, or other common post-surgical complications.

While administering bronchodilators can be an important next step in treatment for bronchospasm, it typically comes after positioning has been addressed. Assessing for signs of obstruction is also important, but if the patient is in immediate respiratory distress, positioning should take precedence to quickly stabilize the patient. Contacting the healthcare provider is essential if the situation does not improve with initial interventions, but it is more appropriate once the immediate need for securing the airway is addressed.