A nurse is administering a cleansing enema to a client who reports mild cramping during instillation of the solution. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Discontinue the enema: Mild cramping is a common response during enema administration and does not require stopping the procedure. Discontinuing unnecessarily would prevent the client from receiving the intended therapeutic effect. B. Slow the rate of instillation: Cramping often occurs when the solution enters the rectum too quickly. Slowing the rate allows the colon to accommodate the fluid more comfortably, reducing discomfort while continuing the enema safely and effectively. C. Ask the client to hold his breath until the cramping passes: Holding the breath does not relieve rectal cramping and may increase client discomfort or anxiety. Comfort measures should focus on adjusting the procedure rather than altering breathing inappropriately. D. Pause the enema to administer pain medication to the client: Administering systemic pain medication is unnecessary for mild, transient cramping. Slowing the enema is sufficient to manage discomfort, and pausing for medication would unnecessarily delay treatment.