What is the priority nursing action for a client following a left above-knee amputation?

The priority nursing action for a client following a left above-knee amputation is to elevate the foot of the bed. This is crucial in the immediate postoperative period as it helps to reduce edema and promotes drainage at the surgical site. After an amputation, the area is susceptible to swelling, and elevating the affected limb assists in minimizing this complication, thereby promoting better healing.

Additionally, elevating the bed can help alleviate pressure on the surgical area and can also lead to improved comfort for the patient.

While monitoring vital signs and assisting the client to the bathroom are important aspects of postoperative care, they are not prioritized over addressing immediate concerns such as swelling. Encouraging ambulation is also significant for recovery but must be approached cautiously and is typically initiated after the initial healing phase is established and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.