The nurse in the clinic is preparing to perform a physical assessment on a client who arrived for a routine check-up. Before beginning the assessment, which four activities should the nurse carry out? (Select all that apply.)

A. Washing hands is a crucial step to prevent infection and maintain hygiene before any physical assessment. B. Providing patient privacy is essential to ensure the client's comfort and confidentiality during the assessment. C. While it’s important to follow the provider’s orders, a routine check-up typically does not require a new healthcare order, as the nurse can perform the assessment as part of standard care. D. Positioning the client comfortably on the examination table is necessary to facilitate the assessment and ensure the client's comfort during the procedure. E. Explaining the procedure to the client helps to alleviate anxiety, improve understanding, and foster cooperation during the assessment.