A client's radial heart rate suddenly increases from 82 to 112 beats/minute with a 1+ pulse volume. Which assessment should the nurse complete next?

A. Urinary output: Although decreased cardiac output can affect renal perfusion and lower urine output, it is not the immediate assessment after a sudden change in heart rate and pulse quality. Urine output trends over hours, not minutes, making it less useful for acute evaluation. B. Pedal pulses: Pedal pulses assess peripheral circulation but are not as responsive to acute changes in central perfusion. Diminished pedal pulses may suggest poor perfusion, but the sudden rise in heart rate with weak radial pulse should prompt central hemodynamic assessment first. C. Heart sounds: Heart sounds provide information about valve function and rhythm but may not detect subtle changes in perfusion status. While auscultation is important, it does not immediately quantify the impact of tachycardia and diminished pulse strength on blood pressure and perfusion. D. Blood pressure: Assessing blood pressure is the most direct and immediate way to evaluate hemodynamic stability in the setting of sudden tachycardia with a weak pulse. Hypotension may indicate decreased cardiac output or early shock, requiring prompt recognition and intervention.