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?

A. Administer prescribed PRN sleep medications: While adequate rest is important for postpartum recovery, it does not address the immediate risk to the client’s healing perineal tissue and comfort related to the fourth-degree laceration. B. Encourage use of prescribed analgesic perineal sprays: Pain management is important for comfort and mobility, but it does not prevent complications such as wound disruption or trauma during defecation, which could impair healing. C. Encourage breastfeeding to promote uterine involution: Breastfeeding supports uterine contraction and reduces postpartum bleeding, but it does not directly impact the care and protection of a severe perineal laceration. D. Administer prescribed stool softener: Preventing straining during bowel movements is critical in promoting healing of a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Stool softeners reduce the risk of trauma to the repaired tissue, prevent pain, and minimize potential complications such as wound dehiscence.