A nurse is caring for a client who has an electrolyte imbalance with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. Which of the following should the nurse administer?

A) Measure the client's manifestations using an anxiety rating scale: This action is essential as the first step because it allows the nurse to accurately assess the severity of the client's anxiety. Understanding the level of anxiety helps in planning appropriate interventions and monitoring the effectiveness of any treatment provided. Accurate assessment is foundational in clinical decision making.

B) Initiate a referral to a local support group: While beneficial, referring the client to a support group should follow an initial assessment. Support groups can offer long-term benefits, but immediate needs and severity must be evaluated first.

C) Assist in finding alternative ways to cope: Helping the client develop coping strategies is an important intervention. However, before suggesting specific coping mechanisms, the nurse needs to understand the current level of anxiety and how it affects the client. This ensures that the coping strategies are appropriately tailored.

D) Administer an antianxiety medication: Administering medication can be crucial in managing severe anxiety, but this step should come after a thorough assessment. The nurse needs to determine if medication is necessary and what dosage might be appropriate, based on the anxiety rating scale and other assessment findings.

A) Cleanse the client's finger with an antiseptic swab: The first step in performing a capillary blood glucose test is to cleanse the client’s finger with an antiseptic swab. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures that any contaminants on the skin do not affect the accuracy of the blood glucose reading.

B) Hold the client's finger in a dependent position: Holding the finger in a dependent position can help increase blood flow, but this step is taken after cleansing the finger. The priority is to first clean the area to minimize the risk of infection.

C) Wipe away the first drop of blood: Wiping away the first drop of blood is done to avoid contamination from interstitial fluid and to ensure a more accurate reading. However, this action occurs after the blood sample is obtained, not before the test begins.

D) Place the lancet on the side of the selected finger: While placing the lancet on the side of the finger is important for minimizing discomfort and obtaining an adequate blood sample, it follows the initial steps of cleaning the finger and preparing for the blood draw.