You are taking care of a patient who has had a colporrhaphy. Which option would indicate a priority assessment during the postoperative period?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Removal of vaginal packing as ordered by the physician. This is a priority assessment because leaving the vaginal packing in place for too long can lead to complications such as infection or tissue damage. It is important to follow the physician's orders for timely removal to prevent these risks.
A: Documentation of a pessary in the operative notes is important for accuracy but not a priority assessment in the postoperative period.
C: The use of a cell saver for transfusion therapy is not directly related to the immediate postoperative care of a colporrhaphy patient and is not a priority assessment in this context.
D: The removal of staples 2 to 3 days post-procedure is important but not as time-sensitive as the removal of vaginal packing. It can be done at a later stage without immediate risk to the patient.