A patient returns from surgery following an abdominal-perineal resection with a sigmoid colostomy and abdominal and perineal incisions. The colostomy is dressed with petroleum jelly gauze and dry gauze dressings. The perineal incision is partially closed and has two drains attached to Jackson-Pratt suction. On the first postoperative day, the nurse gives the highest priority to
a. teaching about a low-residue diet.
b. monitoring drainage from the stoma.
c. assessing the perineal drainage and incision.
d. encouraging acceptance of the colostomy site.