If a patient becomes restless and tachypneic after a central line insertion, what should the nurse do first?

In situations where a patient exhibits restlessness and tachypnea after a central line insertion, the primary concern is the patient's respiratory status, which could indicate complications such as a pneumothorax or respiratory distress. Assessing breath sounds is a critical action because it helps in evaluating the presence of normal airflow and identifying any abnormalities such as diminished breath sounds, which can signal serious issues like pleural effusion or a pneumothorax.

By listening to the breath sounds, the nurse can gather vital information that influences further interventions. If abnormal breath sounds are detected, it may necessitate immediate escalation of care, such as notifying a physician or preparing for further diagnostics or interventions. Thus, prioritizing the assessment of breath sounds ensures that the nurse captures essential data to guide the next steps in management and address any potential respiratory compromise effectively.