The nurse observes on the fetal monitor that a laboring client has a variable deceleration. What action should the nurse implement first?

Choice A rationale

Bright red bleeding in the third trimester of a pregnancy with an Rh-negative mother is an obstetric emergency and warrants the highest priority. The immediate assessment of the fetal heart rate (FHR) and the mother's contraction pattern is crucial. The nurse must determine if the bleeding is caused by conditions such as placental abruption or placenta previa, both of which are life-threatening for the mother and the fetus.

Choice B rationale

While a sterile vaginal examination may eventually be necessary to diagnose the cause of bleeding, it is not the immediate priority. Assessment of fetal well-being and maternal status takes precedence. Additionally, performing a vaginal examination increases the risk of further hemorrhage and potential infection.

Choice C rationale

Leopold maneuvers are used to determine fetal presentation and position, but they are not the priority intervention in this scenario. The nurse's main concern is stabilizing the mother and assessing for signs of fetal distress.

Choice D rationale

Assessing the woman's Rh and Coombs status for RhoGam administration is important. Still, it is not the most immediate priority in this life-threatening situation. The priority is to assess fetal well-being and stabilize the mother. If placental abruption is suspected, RhoGam administration may not be indicated.

Choice C rationale

Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, is often the first and most reliable sign of pregnancy. If a woman is in her childbearing years and a week or more has passed without the start of an expected menstrual cycle, she might be pregnant.

Choice A rationale

Hegar’s sign is a physical examination finding that can be indicative of pregnancy. However, it is not typically used as the primary indicator of pregnancy because it requires a pelvic examination and is less reliable than other signs such as amenorrhea.

Choice B rationale

While breast tenderness can be a symptom of early pregnancy, it is not the most reliable indicator. Many other conditions or factors, such as hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle, can also cause breast tenderness.

Choice D rationale

Morning sickness, characterized by nausea and vomiting, is a common symptom of early pregnancy. However, not all pregnant women experience morning sickness, and it can also be caused by other conditions. Therefore, it is not the most reliable indicator of pregnancy.