What is an important postoperative care action for older patients post hip-repair surgery?

Monitoring the patient frequently to prevent falls is a crucial postoperative care action for older patients who have undergone hip-repair surgery. This population is particularly vulnerable to complications such as falls due to factors like decreased mobility, impaired balance, and the potential effects of anesthesia or pain medication. After hip surgery, the risk of falls can increase, especially as patients may experience weakness or confusion.

Frequent monitoring allows healthcare providers to assess the patient's mobility and level of alertness, and to provide assistance as needed. It also enables the healthcare team to recognize any signs of distress, changes in vital signs, or complications early on, which can significantly enhance patient safety during recovery.

The other options, while they may seem reasonable in isolation, do not address the heightened risk of falls in the postoperative period for older patients. Complete rest may inhibit recovery and mobility, limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and other complications, and administering pain medication every hour may not be appropriate or necessary, as medication administration typically follows a specific schedule. Thus, the emphasis on fall prevention through careful monitoring becomes paramount in the care of older patients post hip-repair surgery.