A 35-year-old client at 34 weeks presents to the clinic stating she has noticed decreased fetal movement over the last 24 hours. What is the priority nursing

Rationale: A. Performing a non-stress test (NST) is the priority because decreased fetal movement can indicate fetal compromise, including hypoxia or distress. Immediate evaluation allows timely intervention to ensure fetal well-being. B. Reassuring the client that the baby is likely sleeping is inappropriate without assessment, as it may delay detection of potential complications. C. Scheduling a routine ultrasound at the next appointment is not timely; waiting could put the fetus at risk. D. Encouraging oral fluids and reassessing in 1 week is unsafe, as decreased fetal movement requires prompt evaluation, not delayed monitoring.