A client who is in labor states, "I think my water just broke!" The nurse notes that the umbilical cord is on the perineum. Which action should the nurse perform first?

Choice A rationale Placing the client in Trendelenburg position is the first action as it helps to relieve pressure off the umbilical cord by using gravity to shift the fetus away from the pelvis. This position helps to prevent cord compression and maintain blood flow to the fetus. Choice B rationale Notifying the operating room team is important but should be done after immediately addressing the umbilical cord prolapse to prevent fetal hypoxia. Initial physical intervention takes priority. Choice C rationale Administering oxygen via face mask is beneficial for the mother and fetus but is not the immediate first action. Positioning the client to relieve pressure off the umbilical cord is more urgent. Choice D rationale Administering a fluid bolus of 500 mL can help maintain maternal blood pressure, but it is not the first action. The priority is to reposition the client to prevent cord compression.