Which nursing intervention has priority when initiating a continuous epidural infusion with an opioid analgesic?

A. Administer a stool softener per PRN protocol: Constipation is a common side effect of opioid therapy, but it develops over time rather than immediately. While stool softeners should be initiated for prevention, they are not the priority at the start of an epidural infusion. B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter per protocol: Urinary retention can occur with epidural opioids, but it is a delayed complication. Catheter insertion may be necessary later but is not the immediate priority upon initiating the infusion. C. Administer an antiemetic per PRN prescription: Nausea and vomiting can occur with opioids, but antiemetics are administered only if symptoms appear. Proactive monitoring for respiratory depression is more urgent at infusion initiation. D. Apply a pulse oximeter to the client per protocol: Continuous epidural opioid infusions carry a risk of respiratory depression and hypoxemia. Applying a pulse oximeter allows for continuous oxygen saturation monitoring, enabling prompt detection of respiratory compromise.