A nurse is preparing an adolescent client who has pneumonia for percussion, vibration, and postural drainage. Prior to the procedure, which nursing action should the nurse complete first?

The correct answer is B: Assess pulse and respirations. Before performing percussion, vibration, and postural drainage on a client with pneumonia, it is essential to assess the client's pulse and respirations to establish a baseline. This step is crucial in determining the client's current cardiovascular and respiratory status, ensuring safety during the procedure. Assessing pulse and respirations allows the nurse to identify any abnormalities or potential complications that may arise during or after the procedure. This initial assessment provides valuable information that guides the nurse in tailoring the care plan to the client's specific needs.
Assessing the characteristics of sputum (choice A) is important but not the priority before the procedure. Instructing the client to exhale with pursed lips (choice C) and auscultating lung fields (choice D) are important steps during the procedure but not the initial action.