A nurse is caring for a client post hemodialysis. The nurse assesses bleeding at the AV fistula site, the nurse should prioritize which of the following actions?

A. Administer pain medication: While post-procedural discomfort is expected and pain management is part of holistic care, addressing pain does not take precedence when there is active bleeding. Bleeding must be controlled first to avoid significant blood loss. B. Obtain a complete blood count (CBC): A CBC helps evaluate the extent of blood loss and overall hematologic status, but it is a secondary step. It does not address the immediate need to stop ongoing bleeding from the AV fistula site. C. Start IV fluids: IV fluid administration may be indicated in cases of volume depletion, but initiating fluids without controlling the source of blood loss can delay necessary hemostasis. D. Apply direct pressure: Hemorrhage from an AV fistula site can lead to rapid blood loss. The priority action is to apply firm, direct pressure to the site to control bleeding and prevent hypovolemic complications. Once bleeding is controlled, further assessments and interventions can follow.