Prior to administering chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, what should the nurse do?

Administering an antiemetic prior to chemotherapy is crucial because nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy agents. By providing an antiemetic medication before the chemotherapy begins, the nurse can help manage these potential side effects proactively, thereby improving the client's comfort and adherence to treatment. This preemptive measure may also ease anxiety about the treatment, as many patients fear the discomfort associated with chemotherapy.

In contrast, while expecting dark stools can be associated with certain medications or treatments, it is not a primary focus in the immediate context of pre-medication for chemotherapy. Dental care, such as flossing, is important in general for oral hygiene but does not relate specifically to the pre-chemotherapy process. Similarly, although maintaining oral hygiene is significant, using commercial mouthwash before therapy is not a required step to prepare for chemotherapy and does not directly address the common side effects that patients may experience. Providing antiemetics is a more direct and critical nursing intervention to enhance a patient's experience during chemotherapy treatment.