A patient's blood pressure suddenly drops from 132/82 to 104/52. The nurse notes that the patient's skin is pale and the patient appears ready to faint. What is the priority action of the nurse?

Check the patient's apical rate to check for a pulse deficit.

Immediately check the client's carotid pulse.

Elevate the head of the patient's bed to at least 45 degrees.

Report the findings to the health care provider immediately.