To maintain optimal perfusion of oxygenated blood to the fetus during a cesarean delivery, the nurse should place the client in which position?

To ensure optimal perfusion of oxygenated blood to the fetus during a cesarean delivery, placing the client in a supine position with a wedge under the right hip is the most effective choice. This positioning helps alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, which can become compressed due to the weight of the uterus, especially in later stages of pregnancy.

When the client is positioned supine without any adjustments, the growing uterus can obstruct venous return from the lower body, potentially leading to decreased cardiac output and hypotension. By using a wedge under the right hip, this position facilitates better venous return, enhances blood flow, and ensures that both the mother and fetus maintain adequate oxygenation during the surgical procedure. This approach is particularly crucial during cesarean deliveries, where maintaining hemodynamics is essential for both maternal and fetal well-being.

The other positions mentioned do not adequately address the issue of inferior vena cava compression. For instance, the left lateral position is often recommended for labor and the antepartum period but does not provide the same benefits during a cesarean. Sitting upright and Fowler's position may help with comfort and reduce pressure on the abdomen, but they do not effectively mitigate the risk of vena cava compression in a supine position,