Which of the following actions should the nurse take prior to starting an intravenous (IV) infusion?

Ensuring that the IV site is patent and clean is crucial before starting an intravenous infusion. A patent IV site means that the IV catheter is properly placed and is allowing fluid to flow without obstruction. If the site is not patent, the infusion could infiltrate, leading to complications such as tissue damage or discomfort for the patient. Additionally, confirming cleanliness helps prevent infection, which is always a priority in any procedure involving skin penetration.

While checking the IV flow rate, obtaining the client's latest blood work, and documenting the IV order in the chart are important steps in the overall process of IV therapy, they do not precede the actual initiation of the infusion. Ensuring a clean and patent IV site directly addresses patient safety and the effectiveness of the infusion, making it the priority action before proceeding with any IV administration.