Before administering zolpidem at bedtime, which client assessment should the practical nurse (PN) complete?

A. Mental status: Assessing mental status is essential before administering zolpidem because it is a sedative-hypnotic medication. Evaluating orientation, alertness, and cognitive function helps ensure the client can safely take the medication and reduces the risk of falls, confusion, or respiratory depression. B. Skin integrity: While skin assessment is important for overall care, it is not directly related to the administration or safety of zolpidem. Skin integrity does not influence the drug’s sedative effects. C. Body temperature: Monitoring body temperature is not necessary prior to zolpidem administration. Fever or hypothermia does not typically affect the immediate safety or effectiveness of the medication. D. Bowel sounds: Assessing bowel sounds is unrelated to zolpidem administration. Gastrointestinal function does not influence the drug’s sedative action or the client’s risk for adverse effects.