Which is the highest priority nursing diagnosis for the patient undergoing a lengthy surgery in the operating room?

A) Powerlessness related to unconscious state from general anesthesia
B) Hypothermia related to cool ambient temperature in the operating room
C) Risk for impaired oral mucus membranes related to prolonged NPO status
D) Risk for caregiver role strain related to lengthy waiting period for family members

Hypothermia

A medical emergency that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature.

Powerlessness

A feeling of lacking control or influence over one's circumstances, often encountered in clinical settings as a psychological or emotional state.

General Anesthesia

A medically induced state of unconsciousness, accompanied by a loss of protective reflexes, to facilitate surgery or other painful procedures.