Which is the priority action of the nurse immediately after administration of an intramuscular injection?

Choice A reason: Informing the patient is secondary; it addresses communication but not immediate safety risks like needlestick injury, which is a higher priority post-injection per occupational health standards. Choice B reason: Assessing comfort is important but not urgent; pain evaluation can wait after securing the needle, as safety from sharps exposure outweighs immediate patient feedback in priority. Choice C reason: Engaging the safety sheath prevents needlestick injuries; it’s the priority action to protect the nurse and others from bloodborne pathogens, aligning with universal precautions post-injection. Choice D reason: Checking for bleeding is routine but not critical; minor oozing is common and manageable later, while needle safety is an immediate concern to prevent infection risks.