When a vaginal examination is requested for a client with a low-lying placenta, what is the priority nursing action?

The priority nursing action in this scenario is to explain why a vaginal examination should not be performed for a client with a low-lying placenta. This condition carries the risk of bleeding, as the placenta may be located near or covering the internal cervical os. Performing a vaginal examination could disrupt the placental attachment or irritate the cervix, potentially resulting in adverse outcomes for both the mother and the fetus.

In this context, providing education and rationale to the client is essential to ensure their understanding of the potential risks involved. It also aligns with the principles of patient safety and informed consent, reinforcing the importance of communication in delivering quality care.

Ensuring the client is comfortable may be a necessary part of overall care, but it is secondary to addressing the significant risk associated with vaginal examinations in this specific obstetric situation. Likewise, while preparation of necessary supplies can be an important nursing responsibility, it should only occur after ensuring that an examination is safe and warranted. Performing the exam as requested would not be appropriate due to the potential complications that could arise from it.