If an electric shaver begins to spark and smoke while in use, what is the first action the nurse aide should take?

In the scenario where an electric shaver begins to spark and smoke, the first action a nurse aide should take is to unplug the shaver. This is crucial for several reasons. Unplugging the device immediately cuts off the electrical supply, which is essential to prevent potential electrical shock hazards both for the user and the client. It also halts any further development of the situation, such as potential fire risk, by stopping the source of electricity that is causing the sparks and smoke.

Taking this action demonstrates a priority on safety and risk mitigation, which is vital in any healthcare setting. Ensuring that any electrical device that shows signs of malfunction is no longer powered helps to maintain a safer environment for everyone involved. The other choices could potentially lead to increased danger in the situation and do not adequately address the immediate risk posed by the malfunctioning shaver.