A patient had surgery 6 hours ago.When the nurse enters the room to turn him,she notes that he is restless and grimacing.Considering the patient's nonverbal communication,what action should the nurse take first?

A) Administer pain medication to the patient.
B) Turn and reposition the patient.
C) Assess to determine the cause of the grimacing.
D) Leave the patient's room so he can rest quietly.

The nurse should assess the patient to determine whether he is having pain.The nurse should not assume by the patient's nonverbal communication that the patient is in pain and administer pain medication; the nurse should validate the message being sent.The nurse should not turn and reposition the patient without assessing him.Leaving the patient without addressing his nonverbal cues is neglectful.