An older adult client arrives at the outpatient eye surgery clinic for a right cataract extraction and lens implant. During the immediate postoperative period, which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A reason: Obtaining vital signs every 2 hours is unnecessary for an outpatient cataract surgery patient. Cataract extraction is a minor procedure, and patients are typically discharged the same day. Frequent vital sign monitoring is more appropriate for inpatient or high-risk surgical procedures. Choice B reason: Teaching a family member to administer eye drops may be helpful, but it is not the immediate postoperative priority. The nurse should first ensure the patient understands self-care instructions and can perform them independently unless there are clear limitations. Choice C reason: Encouraging coughing exercises is contraindicated after eye surgery. Coughing increases intraocular pressure, which can disrupt the surgical site, impair healing, and increase the risk of complications such as hemorrhage or lens displacement. Choice D reason: Providing an eye shield during sleep is the most appropriate intervention. The shield protects the eye from accidental rubbing or pressure during sleep, which could compromise healing or damage the surgical site. This is a standard postoperative instruction for cataract surgery patients.