A nurse is caring for a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation, is in active labor, and has ruptured membranes. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. Initiate fundal massage: Fundal massage is performed after delivery to prevent or manage uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage. It is not appropriate during active labor, especially before the birth of the fetus. B. Apply a fetal heart rate monitor: After rupture of membranes, there is an increased risk of umbilical cord prolapse or fetal distress. Continuous fetal monitoring is essential to assess fetal well-being and detect complications promptly. C. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: While catheterization may be done later, especially before epidural placement or cesarean delivery, it is not the most urgent action. It does not address immediate risks associated with ruptured membranes. D. Initiate an oxytocin IV infusion: Oxytocin is used to augment or induce labor, but should not be started without first assessing fetal status. Fetal monitoring is necessary to establish a baseline before initiating uterotonic agents.