A nurse at a community health clinic is planning care for an adolescent who recently learned that she is pregnant and is concerned about her ability to afford and care for her baby. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Refer the adolescent to a local mental health clinic: While emotional support may be beneficial, the client’s primary concern is financial, not psychological. This may be appropriate later but not the priority. B. Assist the adolescent in applying for Medicaid: Medicaid provides financial assistance for prenatal, delivery, and infant care for low-income individuals. Helping the adolescent access this resource promotes maternal and fetal health by ensuring adequate prenatal care and support services. C. Contact the adolescent's parent for assistance: The nurse must maintain confidentiality unless the adolescent gives consent. In most regions, pregnant minors can consent to their own pregnancy-related care. D. Advise the adolescent to place the newborn for adoption: This is a non-therapeutic and directive response. The nurse should support the adolescent’s autonomy and provide resources for informed decision-making, not impose personal opinions.