Which client should the nurse assess first after a change-of-shift report?

The priority should be given to the client with urine output of 100 mL in 8 hours. This level of urine output indicates potential acute kidney injury or hydration issues, as a healthy adult typically produces about 30 mL of urine per hour or more. The significant reduction in urine output can suggest underlying complications such as dehydration, obstructive processes, or renal impairment, which require immediate assessment and intervention.

Assessing this client first allows for timely identification of any serious complications that could arise from inadequate kidney function and helps in preventing further deterioration of the client’s condition. Managing urinary output is crucial in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and addressing possible complications from conditions like sepsis or renal failure.

In contrast, while abdominal distension and nausea, a low-grade fever with serosanguineous drainage, and incisional pain are also significant concerns, they may not signify as immediate a risk to the client’s stability as the drastic decrease in urine output. Therefore, prioritizing the assessment of the client with reduced urine output ensures the most critical needs of the clients are met first.