During labor, the nurse observes signs of distress in the fetus. What is the nurse's priority action?

Initiating continuous fetal monitoring is the priority action when signs of fetal distress are observed during labor. This step is crucial because it allows for real-time assessment of the fetal heart rate and helps to identify any abnormal patterns that may indicate distress or compromised fetal well-being. Continuous monitoring provides essential data that can inform further interventions to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus, allowing for quick responses if abnormalities are detected.

While performing a thorough maternal assessment, administering pain relief, and checking the maternal support system are all important aspects of care, they do not directly address the immediate need to monitor the fetus's condition. The focus must remain on ensuring the fetal heart rate is stable and that the fetus is receiving adequate oxygenation. Continuous fetal monitoring provides the necessary information to evaluate the situation and guide clinical decisions, making it the most critical priority in this scenario.