In response to the rupture of membranes and presence of meconium fluid, what is the immediate action the nurse should take?

In the scenario where there is a rupture of membranes accompanied by meconium-stained fluid, the immediate action a nurse should take is to obtain sterile suction equipment. This is because the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid indicates a risk for meconium aspiration syndrome in the neonate, which can lead to respiratory complications if the meconium is inhaled.

Having sterile suction equipment ready allows for immediate intervention to clear the airway of the newborn after delivery if meconium is present in the trachea or throat. This proactive measure can help prevent the potential for meconium aspiration, thereby safeguarding the infant’s respiratory health.

While performing a sterile vaginal examination can provide important information about the status of labor and fetal head position, the main priority in the context of meconium-stained fluid is to ensure the newborn's airway is clear as soon as they are born. Monitoring maternal temperature every two hours is helpful for detecting infections, but it does not address the immediate concern associated with the newborn's safety. Preparing for an immediate cesarean birth may be necessary in certain circumstances, but the situation typically allows for vaginal delivery with appropriate precautions taken to handle the meconium. Thus, the correct immediate action focuses on readiness