The nurse assesses an adult client 24 hours following abdominal surgery and finds the client’s blood pressure is 98/40 mm Hg. The client is tachycardic, restless, and irritable. Which action should the nurse perform first?

Choice A reason: While notifying the provider is important, it is not the first action. The nurse must first identify the cause of the hypotension and symptoms before escalating. Choice B reason: Lung sounds may be relevant if respiratory compromise is suspected, but the symptoms here point more toward circulatory instability. Choice C reason: Ensuring IV fluids are running is supportive, but it does not directly address the potential cause of the hypotension and restlessness. Choice D reason: Checking under the back for bleeding is the most immediate and targeted action. Postoperative hemorrhage is a common cause of hypotension and altered mental status, and identifying it quickly can be life-saving.