A client presents with increasing fatigue, shortness of breath with exertion, and a reported wheezing sound that a family member heard. What initial step should the nurse take to assess for respiratory distress?

Encourage the client to rest and monitor their symptoms for a few hours

Instruct the client to take slow, deep breaths to control their anxiety

Perform a focused respiratory assessment, including auscultating lung sounds

Request the client to complete pulmonary function tests immediately