The nurse prepares to administer a scheduled dose of labetalol by mouth to a client with hypertension. The client's vital signs are temperature 99° F (37.2° C), heart rate 48 beats/minute, respirations 16 breaths/minute, and blood pressure (B/P) 150/90 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Assessing for orthostatic hypotension is not a priority action before administering labetalol. Orthostatic hypotension is a possible side effect of the drug, but it is not an immediate concern.Choice B reason: Administering the dose and monitoring the client's BP regularly is not the best action. The client's heart rate is below the normal range of 60 to 100 beats/minute, which indicates bradycardia. Labetalol can further lower the heart rate and cause cardiac complications.Choice C reason: Applying a telemetry monitor before administering the dose is not necessary. Telemetry monitoring is used to detect cardiac arrhythmias, which are not a common adverse effect of labetalol. The client's heart rate and rhythm should be assessed by auscultation.Choice D reason: Withholding the scheduled dose and notifying the health care provider is the correct action. The client's heart rate is too low to safely receive labetalol, which is a beta-blocker that can decrease the heart rate and contractility. The health care provider should be informed of the client's vital signs and the need to adjust the medication dosage or frequency.