A nurse is assisting with a transfer from the bed to a wheelchair. Which of the following is a priority action of the nurse to ensure client safety?

This statement acknowledges the client's feelings and shows that the nurse is interested in hearing more about their experience. It allows the client to share their emotions and concerns, which can help them to process their diagnosis and feel supported.

The other statements do not demonstrate empathy as effectively. "Tomorrow will be better" minimizes the client's current feelings and does not acknowledge the seriousness of the diagnosis. "I believe you can overcome this" focuses on the nurse's beliefs rather than the client's feelings. "What is your biggest fear about this diagnosis?" may be too direct and could put the client on the spot, potentially causing discomfort or anxiety.

The priority action of the nurse to ensure client safety during a transfer from the bed to a wheelchair is to lock the wheels of the wheelchair. This will prevent the wheelchair from moving and provide a stable surface for the client to transfer onto.

Encouraging the client to push up from the wheelchair is not a safe option, as it could result in the client losing their balance and falling.

Ensuring the client is bathed before getting into the wheelchair is not directly related to client safety during the transfer.

Placing the bed in the lithotomy position, which involves positioning the client with their feet in stirrups and their legs elevated, is not necessary for a transfer to a wheelchair and could potentially increase the risk of injury.