ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored related questions and content

A client at 37 weeks' gestation reports sudden gush of clear fluid. What is the nurse's priority action?

  • A. Assess for fetal heart rate changes.
  • B. Check maternal vital signs.
  • C. Perform a sterile vaginal examination.
  • D. Notify the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess for fetal heart rate changes. This is the priority action because the sudden gush of clear fluid may indicate rupture of membranes, potentially leading to fetal distress. Assessing fetal heart rate changes helps determine the urgency of the situation and guides further interventions. Checking maternal vital signs (B) is important but not the priority in this scenario. Performing a sterile vaginal examination (C) should only be done after confirming rupture of membranes to prevent infection. Notifying the healthcare provider (D) can be done after assessing fetal well-being.