In the case of abnormal fetal-monitor tracing, what should the nurse primarily do?

In the situation of abnormal fetal-monitor tracing, the primary action for the nurse is to reposition the mother. This is often the immediate and most effective intervention because changes in the mother's position can impact uteroplacental perfusion and fetal oxygenation, which may help improve the fetal heart rate tracing.

Repositioning the mother can relieve pressure on the umbilical cord or enhance blood flow, potentially correcting the abnormal findings in the tracing. It is essential for the nurse to assess and respond to any changes in fetal condition swiftly, which may involve implementing simple interventions like changing the mother’s position.

While documenting findings is an important aspect of nursing care, it is a secondary action that follows any immediate interventions. Monitoring vital signs of the mother can provide additional context but does not directly address the issue with the fetal heart tracing. Notifying the nurse-midwife is also appropriate if the abnormal tracing persists or worsens, but the priority remains on addressing the immediate fetal distress through repositioning.