A nurse is caring for a client who has returned from the surgical suite following surgery for a fractured mandible. The client had intermaxillary fixation to repair and stabilize the fracture. Which of the following actions is the priority for the nurse to take?

The correct answer is C: Prevent aspiration. This is the priority because with intermaxillary fixation, the client's ability to swallow and protect their airway is compromised. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia. Promoting oral hygiene (A) can be important but not the priority. Ensuring adequate nutrition (B) is important but can be addressed once the risk of aspiration has been minimized. Relieving pain (D) is also important but not the priority over preventing aspiration in this case.