The nurse is caring for a patient who has undergone a hypophysectomy. What is the nurse's priority postoperative intervention?

Choice A reason: Keeping the head of the bed flat is contraindicated after a hypophysectomy. Elevating the head helps reduce intracranial pressure and promotes venous drainage, which is essential to prevent complications such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Choice B reason: Coughing is discouraged post-hypophysectomy due to the risk of increasing intracranial pressure and disrupting the surgical site. Deep breathing and turning may be encouraged, but not forceful coughing. Choice C reason: Applying petroleum jelly may relieve dryness but is not a priority. It does not address potential life-threatening complications and should be considered only for comfort. Choice D reason: Yellow drainage from the nose or incision site may indicate a CSF leak, which poses a risk for meningitis and other serious complications. Prompt reporting and intervention are critical to prevent infection and neurological damage.