The nurse knows that a medication has the side effect of orthostatic hypotension. Which assessment should the nurse make before administering the medication?

Choice A reason: The apical heart rate is important for other assessments but does not directly assess for orthostatic hypotension.Choice B reason: Pulse pressure is not specifically related to orthostatic hypotension assessment.Choice C reason: Level of consciousness can be affected by orthostatic hypotension but is not the primary assessment.Choice D reason: Blood pressure should be measured in both lying and standing positions to assess for orthostatic hypotension.