A nurse is assessing a client's response to receiving morphine for postoperative pain management. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

A. Bradypnea (abnormally slow breathing) is the priority finding because it indicates potential respiratory depression, a serious and life-threatening adverse effect of morphine that requires immediate intervention. B. Bradycardia can occur but is usually not immediately life-threatening and can often be monitored unless it worsens. C. Hypotension is a possible side effect but is generally manageable unless severe. It is not as immediately critical as respiratory compromise. D. Drowsiness is a common and expected side effect of morphine and typically does not require urgent intervention.