What is the priority intervention for a nurse caring for a client following a stroke?

Monitoring the client for increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is essential following a stroke because any swelling or bleeding in the brain can significantly complicate recovery and lead to further neurological damage. After a stroke, the brain is vulnerable, and any increase in pressure can hinder blood flow, leading to ischemia or cell death. Recognizing early signs of elevated ICP, such as changes in consciousness, pupil reaction, and vital signs, allows for timely therapeutic interventions that can prevent further complications.

While pain management, mobility exercises, and physical therapy are important aspects of post-stroke care, they are secondary to ensuring that the client’s condition is stable and that the brain is not under distress due to heightened pressure. Addressing ICP takes precedence as failure to monitor and manage it effectively can have dire consequences for the patient's recovery and overall prognosis.