A nurse is caring for a client in active labor who has meconium staining of the amniotic fluid. The nurse notes a reassuring fetal heart rate (FHR) tracing from the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

The correct answer is C. Assess the fetal heart rate.

A. Providing clean, dry underpads is important for maintaining cleanliness and comfort, but it is not the priority immediately following an amniotomy.

B. Monitoring the client's temperature is a consideration but is not the priority immediately following an amniotomy. Assessing the fetal well-being takes precedence.

C. Assessing the fetal heart rate is the priority action.

Following an amniotomy, there is a risk of cord prolapse or compression, and assessing the fetal heart rate helps detect any signs of fetal distress or compromise.

D. Assessing the odor of the amniotic fluid may be relevant, but it is not the immediate priority after an amniotomy. Focusing on fetal well-being is crucial.

The correct answer is C.

A. Calcium: While calcium is important for bone health, it is not specifically increased during early pregnancy. Adequate calcium intake is important throughout pregnancy, but the focus on increased intake typically occurs later in pregnancy to support fetal bone development.

B. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is important for overall health, but there is not a specific emphasis on increasing vitamin E intake in the early stages of pregnancy. It is generally included as part of a balanced diet.

C. Iron: This is the correct answer. Iron needs increase during pregnancy to support the increased blood volume and prevent iron-deficiency anemia. Adequate iron is crucial for the transport of oxygen to the developing fetus.

D. Vitamin D: While vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function, its increase is not specific to the early stages of pregnancy. Adequate vitamin D intake is essential throughout pregnancy, but it is not singled out as needing a significant increase at 8 weeks of gestation.