A nurse is caring for a client who is being admitted for an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Rationale: A. Obtaining a dietary history is important but not the priority in an acute exacerbation. B. Reviewing electrolyte values is the first action. Clients with acute ulcerative colitis are at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea, making this a priority assessment to prevent complications. C. Investigating emotional concerns is important for holistic care but is secondary to addressing physiologic needs. D. Checking perianal skin integrity is necessary but comes after assessing critical physiologic risks like electrolyte imbalances.