The nurse is caring for an obese client who had a diagnostic laparotomy with midline incision one week ago. The client just called the nurse to report a “popping” sensation in the abdomen. Upon assessment, the nurse notes loops of bowel protruding through the incision. Which is the priority nursing action for this client?

monitor vital signs stay with the client call for help and have the surgeon notified place the client in low Fowler’s with the knees bent