A nurse is assessing a client who has ataxia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to evaluate the client's ability to safely ambulate?

A. Cranial nerve V (trigeminal) is not directly related to ataxia or balance. It is more involved in sensory perception of the face and motor function for chewing. B. Kernig's sign is a test for meningitis, not ataxia or balance issues. It involves flexing the hips and knees to check for resistance or pain that may suggest meningeal irritation. C. Clubbing is related to chronic oxygenation issues or respiratory/cardiovascular conditions, but it is not a direct assessment of ataxia or balance. D. A Romberg's test is used to assess balance and proprioception. By having the client stand with feet together and eyes closed, the nurse can assess the client's ability to maintain balance and identify any unsteadiness or ataxia that may impair safe ambulation.