What is the priority action a nurse should take during the preoperative care of a client scheduled for surgery?

Determining what the client knows about the surgery is crucial in preoperative care as it ensures that the client is informed and comfortable with the upcoming procedure. This action helps to identify any gaps in the patient's understanding, allowing the nurse to provide necessary education about the surgical process, risks, and post-operative expectations. This knowledge empowers the client and helps to alleviate anxiety, contributing to a more positive experience.

The significance of understanding the client’s knowledge lies in the fact that informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement before surgery. The nurse plays a vital role in ensuring that the client fully comprehends what the surgery entails, which is necessary for making informed decisions about their care.

Administering preoperative medications, checking laboratory results, and reviewing the client's medical history are also essential components of preoperative care but take place after it has been established that the client is adequately informed. These actions can follow effectively once the nurse confirms that the patient has an understanding of the surgery itself.