What should a nurse do first when caring for a client with wound dehiscence and evisceration?

In the case of wound dehiscence and evisceration, the primary concern is to protect the exposed organs and manage the client's condition effectively. Placing the client in a side-lying position is a priority because it can help to reduce tension on the abdominal area and may prevent further injury to the wound. This positioning provides some measure of stability and comfort while ensuring that the area remains as protected as possible.

After ensuring the client's comfort in a side-lying position, the nurse would also need to take further actions, such as applying a sterile dressing to protect the exposed tissue, monitoring vital signs, and notifying the healthcare provider. However, the immediate step focuses on reducing tension on the wound and maintaining the client's safety, making it crucial to adopt the side-lying position first.