A nurse is caring for a client following a cardiac catheterization through the left groin. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Monitor the dorsalis pedis pulse every 15 min: Frequent assessment of peripheral pulses, such as the dorsalis pedis, is essential after a cardiac catheterization to detect early signs of arterial occlusion, bleeding, or compromised circulation. Monitoring every 15 minutes during the initial post-procedure period allows timely identification of complications. B. Place the client in Fowler's position: After a femoral cardiac catheterization, the client is typically positioned supine with the affected leg straight to minimize bleeding and hematoma formation. Fowler’s position can increase stress on the groin puncture site and is not recommended immediately post-procedure. C. Keep the client NPO for 24 hr: NPO status is not routinely required for 24 hours following cardiac catheterization. Clients may resume oral intake as tolerated once hemodynamically stable, unless contraindicated for other medical reasons. D. Maintain strict bedrest for the first 12 hr: While bedrest is necessary immediately post-procedure, strict immobility is usually required for 2–6 hours, depending on the type of closure device or sheath used. Maintaining 12 hours of strict bedrest is longer than standard protocol and may unnecessarily increase discomfort and risk of complications like urinary retention.