A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor with 7 cm of cervical dilation and 100% effacement. The fetus is at 1+ station, and the client’s amniotic membranes are intact. The client suddenly states that she needs to push. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Assist the client into a comfortable position: While positioning contributes to comfort and labor progress, it is not the immediate action needed when the client feels an urgent need to push. This symptom suggests the fetus may be descending quickly and requires assessment first. B. Observe the perineum for signs of crowning: A sudden urge to push at 7 cm dilation can indicate rapid fetal descent. Assessing for crowning is the priority to determine if delivery is imminent and whether to notify the provider or prepare for birth immediately. C. Have the client pant during the next contractions: Panting can help prevent premature pushing, but it is more appropriate after assessing whether the fetus is indeed crowning. Action should be based on physical findings, not just reported sensations. D. Help the client to the bathroom to void: Ambulating to the bathroom at this stage of labor, especially with a sensation of needing to push, increases fall risk and could lead to unassisted delivery. Assessment must precede any non-emergency movement.