A nurse is reviewing the electronic fetal monitor strip for a 38-week gravida who is in active labor. The baseline fetal heart rate is 148 bpm with moderate variability. The nurse notes repetitive decelerations that begin at the peak of each uterine contraction and return to baseline after the contraction ends. The patient is positioned supine with an IV of oxytocin infusing at 6 mU/min. Which action should the nurse take first?
- Apply supplemental oxygen via nonrebreather mask at 10 L/min
- Reposition the patient to a lateral position and perform a vaginal examination to assess for cord prolapse
- Discontinue the oxytocin infusion and reposition the patient to a lateral position
- Notify the primary care provider of a late deceleration pattern