What is the priority action for the nurse after receiving a report about a client who has undergone surgery and is currently bleeding?

The priority action after receiving a report about a client who is currently bleeding following surgery centers on ensuring the patient's immediate clinical status is understood and promptly managed. Assessing vital signs and monitoring blood loss allows the nurse to gather crucial information about the patient's condition, which is essential for determining the severity of the bleeding and guiding further interventions.

Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate can indicate whether the client is experiencing shock or significant hemodynamic instability due to blood loss. Monitoring the amount of blood loss helps in identifying whether it is within normal limits or poses a critical risk that may necessitate immediate surgical intervention or other treatments.

Only after this assessment can the nurse decide on the next appropriate steps, such as fluid resuscitation, surgical intervention, or calling the surgeon, depending on the findings. This approach prioritizes patient safety by ensuring that the nurse has a comprehensive understanding of the patient's status before implementing further actions.