What should the nurse prioritize for a patient with breast cancer who develops hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urinary output post-surgery?

In the context of a post-surgical breast cancer patient experiencing hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urinary output, prioritizing the replacement of fluids and electrolytes is critical. These symptoms often indicate that the patient may be experiencing hypovolemic shock or dehydration, conditions where the body lacks adequate fluids to maintain normal physiological functions.

Fluid and electrolyte replacement is essential for restoring blood volume, improving circulation, and ensuring that vital organs receive sufficient blood supply. This action can help stabilize the patient’s blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and enhance kidney function, which is reflected in improved urinary output. Addressing these immediate physiological needs is crucial in managing the patient's post-operative state effectively.

While continuous monitoring of vital signs is important for assessing the patient’s status, it does not address the underlying issue of insufficient fluid volume, which requires urgent intervention. Similarly, increasing the patient's activity level is inappropriate at this time since physical exertion could further strain the cardiovascular system and negatively impact recovery. Administering plasma protein replacement may be necessary in certain situations, yet it is typically secondary to the immediate need for fluids in cases of hypotension and dehydration. Therefore, fluid and electrolyte replacement stands out as the most important and immediate intervention in this scenario.