A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following actions should the nurse first take?

A. While laboratory tests are important for assessing electrolyte imbalances and liver function, they are not the immediate priority in acute alcohol withdrawal. B. Acute alcohol withdrawal can rapidly lead to seizures and delirium tremens, which are life-threatening. Patient safety and prevention of injury are the priority. C. Neurological assessment is important, but first ensuring the client’s safety from potential seizures takes precedence. D. IV access is necessary for fluid or medication administration, but it follows implementing immediate safety measures.