The nurse is planning care for a client who has a fourth-degree midline laceration that occurred during vaginal delivery of an 8-pound 10-ounce (3674 grams) infant. Which intervention has the highest priority for this client?

The correct answer is choice c. Administer prescribed stool softener. Choice A rationale: Administering prescribed PRN sleep medications can help the client rest, but it is not the highest priority. Managing pain and preventing complications from the laceration are more critical. Choice B rationale: Encouraging the use of prescribed analgesic perineal sprays can help manage pain and promote healing, but it is not as crucial as preventing constipation, which can cause significant discomfort and complications. Choice C rationale: Administering prescribed stool softeners is the highest priority because a fourth-degree laceration involves the anal sphincter and rectal mucosa. Preventing constipation is essential to avoid straining during bowel movements, which can cause pain and disrupt the healing process. Choice D rationale: Encouraging breastfeeding to promote uterine involution is important for postpartum recovery, but it is not directly related to the care of a fourth-degree laceration. Managing pain and preventing complications from the laceration take precedence.