The intraoperative nurse observes the anesthesiologist administer general anesthesia,insert the endotracheal tube,and take control of the airway.The nurse understands that the next important nursing intervention for this patient is to:

A) Prepare the surgical site
B) Shave the surgical site
C) Position the patient
D) Pad bony prominences

The circulating nurse will position the patient to maintain the patient's airway,to allow vital signs to be monitored,to maintain the patient's comfort and safety,and to make the operative site accessible.The site is usually prepared after the patient is positioned because some sites are not visible until after positioning.The surgical site is not normally shaved,but if it is required it is usually done in preoperative holding.Only after the patient is positioned can the bony prominences be padded.