A 58-year-old client with end-stage renal disease is receiving hemodialysis three times per week. Upon arrival at the dialysis center, the nurse assesses the client's arteriovenous (AV) fistula in the left forearm and notes the absence of a palpable thrill and absence of an audible bruit on auscultation. The client reports that the arm feels "different" since yesterday. Which action should the nurse take first?
- Apply a warm compress to the fistula site and reassess in 30 minutes.
- Proceed with initiating hemodialysis as scheduled and document the finding.
- Notify the primary health care provider immediately and withhold hemodialysis via this access site.
- Elevate the left arm above heart level and administer a prescribed anticoagulant.