The nurse is caring for a client who reports a sudden, severe headache, and facial numbness. The nurse asks the client to smile and observes an uneven smile with facial droop to the right side and a hand grasp strength that is weaker on the right than the left. The client denies a recent history of headaches or trauma. After obtaining vital signs, the nurse should implement which intervention?

Rationale: A. Obtain a focused history to determine recent bleeding and use of anticoagulants: The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cerebrovascular event, such as a stroke. Determining recent bleeding history and anticoagulant use is critical before any interventions, as it influences treatment options like thrombolytic therapy. B. Place an indwelling urinary catheter and measure strict intake and output: While fluid balance is important in hospitalized clients, catheterization is not the immediate priority in acute neurological assessment and could increase infection risk unnecessarily. C. Administer aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping: Administering antiplatelet therapy before ruling out hemorrhagic stroke could worsen bleeding. A focused history and diagnostic evaluation must precede aspirin administration. D. Initiate bilateral intermittent sequential pneumatic compression devices: These devices help prevent deep vein thrombosis but are not the urgent priority in a client with signs of acute stroke. Immediate neurological assessment and history-taking take precedence.