In caring for a client after a left nephrectomy, which nursing intervention is most important to include in the plan of care?

Monitoring urinary output daily is crucial after a left nephrectomy because it directly reflects the kidney's function and the patient's overall fluid balance. Since a nephrectomy involves the removal of a kidney, it's important to assess how the remaining kidney is managing the workload. This monitoring helps identify any potential complications such as acute kidney injury, dehydration, or urinary retention early on, allowing for timely intervention if problems arise.

In the context of postoperative care, assessing urinary output can provide valuable insights into renal function and fluid status. It allows healthcare providers to evaluate whether the body is effectively filtering blood and producing urine, which are essential for maintaining homeostasis. Regular monitoring also helps ensure the patient is getting adequate hydration and may guide fluid management practices. All of these factors contribute to better outcomes for the patient in the recovery phase following nephrectomy.