Which post-operative care step is crucial after the surgical field has been closed?

The final instrument count is a crucial post-operative care step after the surgical field has been closed because it is a critical safety measure aimed at preventing retained foreign objects within a patient's body. This process ensures that all surgical instruments, sponges, and other materials used during the procedure are accounted for before the patient leaves the operating room. A thorough and accurate count minimizes the risk of complications and provides peace of mind for both the surgical team and the patient.

While other steps such as patient mobilization, monitoring anesthesia recovery, and applying pressure dressings are important in their own right, they do not directly address the immediate concerns of safety related to what may have been used during surgery. The final instrument count is an essential measure in maintaining surgical integrity and ensuring that all aspects of the procedure have been managed effectively.