Nokea
A pregnant patient is at 30 weeks gestation and is experiencing difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A - Encourage the patient to rest in an upright position. This is the priority action because the patient is likely experiencing supine hypotensive syndrome due to pressure on the vena cava when lying flat. This can compromise blood flow to the fetus. By having the patient rest in an upright position, the pressure on the vena cava is reduced, improving blood flow and oxygenation for both the patient and the fetus. Administering oxygen and preparing for delivery (option B) is not the immediate priority. Monitoring fetal heart rate (option C) is important but not the initial action. Instructing the patient to take deep breaths and stay in bed (option D) does not address the underlying issue of supine hypotensive syndrome.