Before administering 100mg of lisinopril, the nurse assesses the patient’s vital signs. What is the most appropriate action in this situation?

In this scenario, the most appropriate action before administering lisinopril, an antihypertensive medication, is to hold the medication. It is essential for the nurse to evaluate the patient's vital signs, particularly blood pressure, because lisinopril can significantly lower blood pressure. If the patient's blood pressure is already low or if there are signs of hypotension, administering the medication could pose a risk for further decreasing the blood pressure, leading to potential complications.

By holding the medication, the nurse prioritizes patient safety and allows for further assessment or intervention, which may include notifying a healthcare provider for further instructions. This action aligns with standard nursing care protocols in medication administration, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the medication is appropriate based on the patient’s current physiological status.

Other options, such as administering double or half the dose or asking an aide to report vital signs, do not address the necessity of a professional assessment and decision-making process based on the patient's specific condition.