If a client arrives for their vaccination but has a current febrile illness and cough, what should the nurse do?

When a client arrives for vaccination and presents with a current febrile illness and cough, the most appropriate action is to reschedule the administration of the vaccine. This is because vaccinations during an acute illness can potentially lead to reduced efficacy of the vaccine, as the body's immune response may be compromised or altered while fighting the illness. Additionally, there is a risk of transmitting the infection to other clients in the vaccination setting.

By rescheduling the vaccine, the nurse ensures the client receives the vaccine when their immune system is functioning optimally, which is critical for achieving the desired immune response. Furthermore, delaying the vaccine allows time for the client to recover from their illness, minimizing the risk of complications associated with simultaneous infection and vaccination.

While performing additional assessments or referring to a physician could provide further information about the client's condition, these actions do not directly address the immediate need to defer vaccination due to the client's current health status. Administering the vaccine immediately would not be advisable under these circumstances, as it could jeopardize the health of the client and potentially lead to complications.