A patient, age 49, returns from the postanesthesia care unit after a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy to treat cervical cancer. Which nursing intervention has the highest priority at this time?

A. Monitor the patient for indications of hemorrhage.
B. Assess the patient's pain level and response to analgesics.
C. Encourage the patient to do deep breathing and leg exercises.
D. Provide emotional support to the patient.