A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving propofol for an outpatient colonoscopy. Which of the following is a priority for the nurse to monitor?

A. Temperature: Propofol does not typically affect body temperature in the short term during outpatient procedures, so monitoring temperature is not the immediate priority. B. Blood pressure: Propofol can cause hypotension, so blood pressure monitoring is important, but it is secondary to assessing airway and breathing because respiratory depression can be life-threatening. C. Pain level: Propofol provides sedation and amnesia but not analgesia. Pain assessment is relevant post-procedure, but during administration, airway and breathing take precedence. D. Respiratory rate: Propofol can cause significant respiratory depression, including apnea. Continuous monitoring of respiratory rate and oxygenation is the priority to detect and respond to life-threatening airway compromise immediately.