A nurse is assessing a preschool-age child who is in the immediate postoperative period following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following assessment findings is the priority?

A. Crying is a common response to post-operative pain. While it should be addressed, it's not the most critical concern. B. Adequate hydration is essential, but it's not as critical as the risk of hemorrhage. C. Pain management is crucial, but it's not the most immediate concern. D. Frequent swallowing is a classic sign of postoperative hemorrhage. It indicates the child is trying to clear blood from the throat. This is the priority assessment finding and requires immediate intervention.