A patient is due for a 40-mg dose of furosemide (Lasix) at 9:00 AM on May 5, 2013. The drug label reads "20 mg per tablet." The tablets in the bottle appear firm and unbroken. The expiration date on the bottle reads "April 2, 2013." The best nursing action is to:

Choice A reason: Half a tablet (10 mg) underdoses; expired drugs may degrade, and 40 mg is needed for diuresis, risking therapeutic failure in this scenario. Choice B reason: Two tablets (40 mg) meet the dose but are expired; potency loss post-April 2013 risks inefficacy or toxicity, compromising patient safety. Choice C reason: Seeking 40-mg tablets ignores expiration; even if available, current stock is outdated, and fresh supply is still required for reliable effect. Choice D reason: Expired drugs (April 2013) lose potency; a new bottle ensures 40 mg of active furosemide, maintaining efficacy and safety for hypertension or edema.