If a patient with limited mobility states they can perform perineal care themselves, what should the nurse prioritize?

Prioritizing the assessment of the patient's ability to perform proper care is essential in this scenario. Understanding the patient's actual skills and limitations provides crucial information for the nurse. It ensures that the patient can safely and effectively perform perineal care independently, which is important for their dignity and self-reliance.

Assessing the patient's ability allows the nurse to identify any potential issues or areas where the patient may need assistance or education. It fosters a patient-centered approach, encouraging the patient to participate actively in their care while ensuring they do not inadvertently compromise their hygiene or health.

Providing supplies and linens is supportive but secondary to understanding whether the patient can perform the task correctly. Ensuring privacy is also important in maintaining the patient’s dignity, but it becomes less relevant if the patient is not capable of completing the care safely on their own. Documenting any complaints comes after ensuring the patient's ability and comfort during self-care, making it a follow-up action rather than an initial priority.