What should a nurse do before pulling a client up in bed?

Raising the client's head of bed is the correct action before pulling a client up in bed because it helps to create a safer and more comfortable position for both the nurse and the client. This adjustment allows gravity to assist in the movement, making it easier to pull the client up while reducing the risk of injury to the nurse or discomfort to the client.

Adjusting the head of the bed can also help the client feel more secure and less likely to slide down when being repositioned. Additionally, this position facilitates better respiratory function and decreases the risk of aspiration, especially in clients who may be at risk due to their medical conditions.

In contrast, while asking the client to assist may encourage their participation in their care, it might not effectively address their physical stability or the overall dynamics of the movement. Lowering the head of the bed could actually increase the risk of sliding down or make it more difficult to pull the client up. Notifying the physician is generally not required for a routine repositioning task and would delay necessary care.