A nurse is preparing a client to be transferred to the operating room. The nurse informs the client that there is a delay and they will not be transferred for another 15 min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take during this delay?

Effective preoperative nursing care involves maximizing the immediate period before surgery for patient education. The nurse must apply knowledge of perioperative safety and respiratory complications to utilize time effectively, ensuring the patient is prepared for recovery while maintaining strict safety protocols. Choice A rationale Once preoperative medications have been administered or the patient is prepared for transfer, they should remain in bed with side rails up to prevent falls. If the patient must void, a urinal or bedpan is used. Choice B rationale Not all daily medications should be administered before surgery. Many, such as anticoagulants or certain antihypertensives, are held to prevent surgical complications. Medications should only be given based on specific preoperative orders from the surgeon. Choice C rationale Standard preoperative fasting usually requires the patient to be NPO for 6 to 8 hours for solids, not 24 hours. A 24-hour fast is unnecessary and could lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances before the procedure. Choice D rationale Utilizing a delay to reinforce postoperative breathing exercises is an excellent use of time. These exercises help prevent atelectasis and pneumonia during recovery by ensuring the patient understands how to maximize lung expansion and clearance.