The nurse is caring for an older adult patient who is postoperative from a total hip replacement. What PRIORITY care is anticipated postoperatively?

A. Maintain weight bearing as prescribed: Prevents dislocation or implant loosening and supports proper healing. Weight-bearing status depends on the type of prosthesis and surgical approach and must be strictly followed. B. Medicate with pain medications: Important for comfort, but not the priority in preventing complications like dislocation or delayed healing. C. Provide an elevated toilet seat: Helpful to prevent excessive hip flexion and dislocation, but it's a supportive rather than priority intervention. D. Assist out of bed immediately following surgery: Early ambulation is encouraged, but not necessarily immediate or more important than following weight-bearing restrictions.