A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following orthopedic surgery and is receiving IV ketorolac. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority to report to the provider?

Choice A rationale Dry mouth can be an anticholinergic effect of some medications or a symptom of dehydration, but it is not a direct, priority adverse effect associated with ketorolac, which is an NSAID. While uncomfortable, it does not indicate immediate life-threatening organ dysfunction. Choice B rationale Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, which can lead to adverse renal effects. Prostaglandins play a crucial role in maintaining renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. Oliguria (urine output < 0.5 mL/kg/hr or < 400 mL/24 hr) indicates potential acute kidney injury, a serious and life-threatening complication that requires immediate reporting to the provider. Choice C rationale Nausea is a common gastrointestinal adverse effect of NSAIDs, including ketorolac, due to direct irritation of the gastric mucosa or central effects. While it can cause discomfort and impact client well-being, it is generally not a life-threatening symptom and does not take priority over signs of organ damage. Choice D rationale Altered taste, or dysgeusia, can be an idiosyncratic drug reaction but is not a common or priority adverse effect of ketorolac. While it can affect appetite and client satisfaction, it does not signify acute organ damage or a life-threatening condition requiring urgent intervention.