What action should be prioritized for a patient in the early postoperative period after prostatectomy?

In the early postoperative period after prostatectomy, prioritizing the discouragement of straining for a bowel movement is crucial. This approach directly addresses the risk of postoperative complications, such as increased intra-abdominal pressure, which can lead to bleeding or pressure on the surgical site. Straining can also pose a risk for urinary retention and may lead to complications like constipation, which is common after surgery due to factors such as pain medication and reduced mobility.

Following a prostatectomy, patients may experience changes in urinary function and bowel habits, and proper management is essential to facilitate recovery. The aim is to maintain regular bowel movements without excessive effort, thus minimizing the risk of additional stress on the surgical area.

Other options may not align as effectively with the specific postoperative concerns. For instance, having the client stand to void may not be appropriate in the immediate postoperative setting, especially if they are experiencing dizziness or weakness. Using a bulb syringe to aspirate urine is generally not necessary and could introduce risk of infection if not performed with aseptic technique. Notifying if the client does not void by bedtime is important for monitoring urinary retention, but taking preventative measures against straining should take precedence to ensure the patient can void comfortably and safely.