Your patient has just had a paracentesis during which 5 liters of fluid were removed. Which assessment is the priority?

After a paracentesis, particularly one involving the removal of a significant volume like 5 liters, monitoring blood pressure becomes a critical priority. The procedure can lead to changes in intravascular volume, which may result in hypotension. This is especially important because the rapid removal of fluid can cause vasodilation and lead to potential hypovolemic shock if the body cannot compensate adequately.

Assessing blood pressure regularly will help identify any significant drops that could indicate hypovolemia or other complications post-procedure. While monitoring heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature is also important in post-procedural care, blood pressure is vital to ensure that the patient remains hemodynamically stable. Therefore, prioritizing blood pressure assessment is essential to effectively manage and react to any complications that may arise following the paracentesis.