Final answer:
Giving a client a small towel to hold is safest and most effective during nasogastric tube insertion due to the discomfort of the procedure. During blood pressure measurement with a sphygmomanometer, the patient's arm must be still, so holding a towel is not part of the procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the options provided, giving a client a small towel to hold would be safest and most effective during nasogastric tube insertion (c). This procedure can be uncomfortable for the patient, and holding a towel may help them manage discomfort and provide a way to signal the healthcare provider if they are in distress. When obtaining blood pressure measurements with a sphygmomanometer, it is important that the patient's arm is relaxed and still to ensure an accurate reading, thus holding a towel is not necessary. Administering medication typically does not require the patient to hold a towel. When assessing respiratory rate, the patient's hands may be at rest or involved in tasks related to their breathing, but not specifically holding a towel.
The process of measuring blood pressure involves a clinician wrapping an inflatable cuff around the patient's arm, inflating the cuff by squeezing a rubber pump to raise pressure around the artery, and using a stethoscope to listen for the Korotkoff sounds while gradually allowing air to escape from the cuff. These details underscore the importance of the patient's arm remaining still during the procedure and not holding a towel.