A nurse is caring for a client who reports feeling nauseous immediately following a procedure using moderate (conscious) sedation. Which of the following should be the nurse's priority action?

Rationale: A. Auscultate bowel sounds: While assessing bowel sounds can be important, it is not the priority action in this situation. The client is experiencing nausea, and the priority is to ensure their airway and safety, not just bowel function. B. Turn the client on their side: Turning the client on their side is the priority action. This position helps prevent aspiration in case the client vomits, ensuring the airway remains clear and reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia, especially after sedation. C. Administer ondansetron: While ondansetron is effective for treating nausea, it is not the priority action in this case. The nurse should first ensure the client's safety by positioning them appropriately to prevent aspiration before administering medication. D. Ensure suction equipment is available: Having suction equipment available is important for safety, but the immediate priority is positioning the client to prevent aspiration. Once the client is positioned safely, suction can be used if necessary, or be obtained if unavailable.