A nurse is caring for a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and is undergoing a nonstress test (NST). The test is nonreactive. Which of the following interventions should the nurse suggest based on the findings?

A. Completing an incident report is required for tracking falls and improving safety measures, but it is not the first priority. The nurse must first assess the client to determine if immediate medical intervention is needed. Delay in assessment could lead to unrecognized injuries or complications. Incident reports are also not part of the medical record and should be completed after client care. Ensuring client stability always takes precedence over documentation.
B. Measuring vital signs is the priority because it helps identify any immediate complications from the fall, such as hypotension, pain, or neurological impairment. A sudden drop in blood pressure could indicate shock, while tachycardia may suggest distress or injury. Checking for changes in mental status, pain levels, and potential fractures ensures timely intervention. If abnormalities are found, further evaluation or treatment can be initiated promptly. Early assessment prevents worsening conditions and guides further actions.
C. Documenting the fall in the client's medical record is necessary for continuity of care but should be done after assessing and stabilizing the client. Medical documentation includes details about the fall, findings from the assessment, and any interventions provided. However, delaying assessment to document first could result in missed critical signs of injury. Proper documentation supports quality care but is secondary to ensuring the client’s immediate well-being. The nurse should prioritize physical assessment before recording the incident.
D. Notifying the provider is important, especially if the client has sustained injuries, is in pain, or has abnormal vital signs. However, calling the provider before performing an assessment can lead to incomplete or inaccurate reporting. The provider will need specific details about the client's condition, including neurological status, hemodynamics, and any visible injuries. Conducting an assessment first ensures that the provider receives the most relevant and useful information. Immediate assessment allows for timely intervention and prevents unnecessary delays in care.

A. Rigid abdomen. A rigid or board-like abdomen is characteristic of placental abruption, not placenta previa. Placental abruption involves premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, leading to significant abdominal pain and uterine tenderness. In contrast, placenta previa typically presents with painless bleeding.
B. Increased fetal movement. Fetal movement is not directly affected by placenta previa unless there is severe hemorrhage leading to fetal distress. While decreased movement in cases of significant bleeding may indicate fetal compromise, increased movement is not a typical finding.
C. Persistent uterine contractions. Placenta previa does not usually cause persistent contractions. While mild uterine irritability may occur, placenta previa is primarily characterized by painless bleeding. Persistent contractions are more commonly associated with preterm labor or placental abruption.
D. Bright red vaginal bleeding. The hallmark sign of placenta previa is painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. This occurs due to the placenta covering or being near the cervical os, leading to bleeding as the cervix begins to dilate or efface.