A nurse is preparing to administer IV ketorolac to a client who has postoperative pain. Which action should the nurse take before administering the medication?

A. While ketorolac can be used with opioids for additive pain relief, it should not be mixed in the same IV line unless compatibility is confirmed. Mixing medications without verifying compatibility can cause precipitation, reduced efficacy, or adverse reactions. This is not a standard precaution to take before every administration. B. Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Administering ketorolac to a client with impaired renal function can lead to accumulation of the drug, worsening kidney injury, or other complications such as fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances. Before administering IV ketorolac, the nurse must assess renal function (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN, urine output) to ensure the client can safely metabolize and excrete the medication. C. Ketorolac IV should be administered slowly, typically over 15–30 seconds depending on institutional guidelines, to reduce the risk of adverse effects such as hypotension or GI irritation. Rapid administration is unsafe and does not outweigh the importance of proper assessment. D. Vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate, should always be assessed prior to administering IV medications that can affect renal perfusion or hemodynamics. Skipping this step could place the client at risk for hypotension or exacerbate underlying conditions. Administering medication before assessment is unsafe practice.