During an access check, which of the following actions should be taken?

The action of looking, listening, and feeling is vital during an access check because it ensures a comprehensive assessment of the site. This method allows the healthcare professional to visually inspect for any visible complications, such as signs of infection or abnormalities in the access site. Listening can help detect any unusual sounds, such as a bruit or a thrill, which indicates proper blood flow through the access. Feeling involves palpating the site to assess warmth, tenderness, and any other abnormalities, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the access point. This multidimensional approach is crucial in monitoring the integrity and functionality of the vascular access, ultimately ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

Other options may focus on singular aspects of assessment, which could lead to incomplete evaluations or missed complications. For instance, merely checking for swelling may overlook other important signs, while applying ice does not address the necessary evaluation of vascular access integrity. Palpating for pulse is a valuable action, but it is part of the broader strategy encompassed in looking, listening, and feeling.