What intervention should a nurse recommend for a pregnant client experiencing signs of fetal distress?

Monitoring the fetal heart rate is a critical intervention for a pregnant client experiencing signs of fetal distress. This practice allows healthcare providers to assess the well-being of the fetus in real time. Abnormalities in the fetal heart rate can indicate potential issues such as hypoxia or umbilical cord compression, and timely monitoring can help identify these problems quickly.

By observing the fetal heart rate, the nurse can detect patterns that suggest distress, such as decelerations or abnormal variability, which can guide further management of the pregnancy. This assessment is essential for making informed decisions on potential interventions, such as the need for emergency delivery or adjustments in maternal position or fluid administration.

In contrast, the other options do not directly address fetal distress. Physical activity may not be appropriate as it could exacerbate distress. Increasing fluid intake may support maternal hydration but does not specifically monitor or assess fetal well-being. Practicing relaxation techniques might help reduce maternal anxiety but also does not provide the necessary information about the fetus's condition.