Final answer:
The nurse should ask the patient about preferences before initiating a.m. care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should first ask the patient about preferences before initiating a.m. care. This allows the nurse to understand the patient's specific needs and preferences, ensuring that the care provided is personalized and respectful of their choices. Once the preferences are known, the nurse can proceed with a.m. care, which may involve activities such as feeding the patient breakfast, changing the linens on the bed, and raising the bed to working height.