NCLEX: A 29-year-old client in labor and delivery is being evaluated for third-trimester pregnancy. Assessment data incl…

Maternal-newborn nursing Health Promotion and Maintenance Reduction of Risk Potential

Case Study

A 29-year-old client in labor and delivery is being evaluated for third-trimester pregnancy. Assessment data include decreased fetal movement compared with the client's usual pattern. Which nursing action should the nurse take first?

Question

A. Implement the final step of the care plan before assessing the client.
B. Document the client as stable without reassessment.
C. Administer the next scheduled intervention before reassessing the client.
D. Perform a focused assessment for immediate risk, then implement the safest intervention per protocol.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Perform a focused assessment for immediate risk, then implement the safest intervention per protocol.

Rationale: First-action questions on the NCLEX require assessment and safety before treatment, documentation alone, or delegation of nursing judgment.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Prenatal assessment