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?

A. Initiate fundal massage: Fundal massage is typically used postpartum to stimulate uterine contraction and prevent hemorrhage, not during active labor, so this is not appropriate at this stage. B. Apply a fetal heart rate monitor: Monitoring the fetal heart rate is essential after membrane rupture to assess fetal well-being and detect signs of distress during labor, making this the priority action. C. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: While sometimes necessary during labor if the client cannot void, catheter insertion is not a routine first action and depends on the client’s condition and labor progress. D. Initiate an oxytocin IV infusion: Oxytocin is used to induce or augment labor but should only be started based on the healthcare provider’s order and assessment of labor progression, not immediately after membrane rupture.