A nurse is preparing a client who has advanced cirrhosis for an abdominal paracentesis. Which of the actions should the nurse take?

A. Assure the client that the procedure is painless: Paracentesis may cause discomfort or pressure; the nurse should explain the procedure and possible sensations rather than guarantee it will be painless. B. Have the client increase fluid intake after the procedure: Routine instruction to increase fluids is not standard - large-volume paracentesis may require monitoring of hemodynamics and possible albumin replacement; fluid/IV orders are provider-directed. C. Place the client on his back: The client is usually positioned sitting upright or in semi-Fowler’s position to allow fluid to pool in the lower abdomen and facilitate safe needle placement. D. Instruct the client to empty his bladder: Emptying the bladder reduces the risk of bladder puncture during the procedure and is standard pre-procedure instruction.