Nokea
A nurse in the labor and delivery unit is caring for a client who is undergoing external fetal monitoring. The nurse observes that the fetal heart rate begins to slow after the start of a contraction and the lowest rate occurs after the peak of the contraction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The priority action for a nurse to take when observing a slowing of the fetal heart rate after the start of a contraction, with the lowest rate occurring after the peak of the contraction, is to place the client in the lateral position. This position, specifically the left lateral position, can alleviate pressure on the vena cava, improve blood flow to the placenta, and help optimize fetal oxygenation. By changing the client's position, the nurse can potentially relieve the decelerations seen in the fetal heart rate and promote better oxygenation for the fetus. This intervention is effective and can be quickly implemented in a labor and delivery setting to support fetal well-being.