A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and notes that the umbilical cord is prolapsed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Place the client in Trendelenburg position: This position helps relieve pressure on the umbilical cord, potentially improving blood flow to the fetus. It is an appropriate immediate intervention for a prolapsed cord. B. Apply fundal pressure: This is contraindicated in cases of cord prolapse as it can exacerbate the situation by pushing the presenting part further down and increasing pressure on the cord. C. Loosely wrap the cord with petroleum gauze: While protecting the cord is important, simply wrapping it does not address the immediate need to relieve pressure and restore blood flow to the fetus. D. Evaluate uterine tone: While assessing uterine tone is important during labor, the immediate priority when a prolapsed cord is noted is to relieve pressure on the cord to prevent fetal compromise. Therefore, this step should not be the first action taken.