Before the initial prenatal examination, what procedure should the nurse instruct the client to complete?

The most appropriate procedure for the client to complete before the initial prenatal examination is to provide a clean-catch urine sample. This step is crucial for several reasons.

First, the clean-catch urine sample allows for the detection of various conditions that may affect both the mother and the fetus, such as urinary tract infections or proteinuria, which can be indicators of preeclampsia. These tests are foundational in assessing the mother's overall health and establishing the necessary baseline information.

Additionally, obtaining a urine sample at the first prenatal visit is routine practice, enabling healthcare providers to perform necessary laboratory tests that guide prenatal care. Having this sample ready before the examination ensures that valuable diagnostic information can be collected without delay, allowing for prompt management of any findings.

While performing a self-breast exam, taking a home pregnancy test, and completing an allergy questionnaire are all important aspects of prenatal care, they do not have the same immediate relevance and diagnostic value as the clean-catch urine sample in the context of the initial prenatal visit.