The nurse is providing care for a client who had surgical repair of a paraesophageal hernia. The nurse observes that the patient exhibits signs of dysphagia during the first postoperative meal. Which action does the nurse take?

A. Cut the food into small pieces. This may help with general swallowing issues but does not address possible post-op complications. B. Report observation to the health care provider (HCP). Dysphagia post-surgery could indicate a serious complication, such as swelling or nerve involvement. It should be reported immediately. C. Offer the patient fluids. This could increase risk of aspiration if the patient is having difficulty swallowing. D. Assure patient the problem is temporary. This dismisses the symptom without assessment and could delay appropriate intervention.