Upon assessing a client two days post-lobectomy with difficulty breathing, what is the first action the nurse should take?

In this scenario, assessing a client two days post-lobectomy who is experiencing difficulty breathing is critical, as respiratory complications can arise following such surgery. The priority in this situation is to ensure the client is stable and to determine the cause of the breathing difficulty.

The appropriate first action is to check the client's oxygen saturation. This step directly assesses the client's respiratory status and determines the severity of the difficulty in breathing. Monitoring oxygen saturation provides essential information about the client's oxygenation level and may guide further interventions. If the saturation is low, this can indicate a possible respiratory distress or complication that may require immediate intervention.

While it may seem intuitive to notify the rapid response team in the event of a serious situation, it is essential first to gather more data about the client's condition. By checking the oxygen saturation, the nurse can ascertain whether the situation requires escalation. The other actions, such as placing the client in Trendelenburg position or checking the surgical dressing, do not directly address the immediate concern of difficulty breathing and may not provide necessary information that impacts the next steps in care.

Ultimately, addressing the client’s respiratory status through oxygen saturation monitoring is crucial to prioritize safe and effective nursing care.