The practical nurse (PN) administers an injection using a syringe with a retractable needle. After the needle is removed from the client's skin, the needle does not retract, and the PN gets stuck in the finger with the used needle. What action should the PN take first?

A. Calling the charge nurse might be necessary, but the immediate action after a needlestick injury is to cleanse the affected area to minimize the risk of infection. B. Observing the appearance of the injection site is important but not the first action following a needlestick injury. C. Cleaning the finger with soap and water is the initial action to reduce the risk of infection following a needlestick injury. D. Explaining the occurrence to the client is important but comes after taking care of the nurse's immediate health following a needlestick injury.