What should a nurse do for a laboring client who complains of leg cramps?

Dorsiflexing the foot while extending the leg is an effective intervention for relieving leg cramps, particularly in pregnant women who may experience these cramps due to various physiological changes. During labor, the body undergoes significant physical stress and adjustments, which can lead to muscle cramps. Dorsiflexion helps to stretch the calf muscle, alleviating the spasm and providing relief.

In cases of leg cramps, simply asking about calcium intake may not directly address the immediate discomfort the client is experiencing. While calcium is important for muscle function, it does not provide instant relief from a cramp. Lowering the leg off the side of the bed could potentially exacerbate the cramp by placing more strain on the affected muscles. Elevating the leg above the heart might not be beneficial for a cramp situation, as it does not provide the necessary stretching to alleviate the spasm and could limit blood flow to the area.

Therefore, the appropriate action is to extend the leg and dorsiflex the foot to effectively relieve the cramp and enhance the client's comfort during labor.