What should the nurse do first when a client reports pain after abdominal surgery?

When a client reports pain following abdominal surgery, the priority for the nurse is to determine the characteristics of the pain. This involves assessing several factors, such as the location, intensity, quality, duration, and any aggravating or alleviating factors associated with the pain. By understanding these details, the nurse can gain insight into the nature of the pain, which can help differentiate between normal post-operative discomfort and potential complications, such as infection or bowel obstruction.

Once the characteristics of the pain have been assessed, the nurse can make more informed decisions regarding further interventions, such as administering analgesics or taking vital signs. Recognizing the specifics of the pain helps to ensure appropriate care and interventions tailored to the client's situation, ultimately enhancing the management of the client's pain and overall recovery following surgery.