Which nursing action is indicated for a client on the antepartum unit?

In the context of a client on the antepartum unit, inserting a large-bore intravenous catheter is a critical nursing action. This is often necessary for clients who may require fluid administration or the potential need for interventions that involve blood products or medications, especially if the client is expecting a higher level of care during labor and delivery or has specific health conditions that dictate closer monitoring and support.

Large-bore IV access is preferred for its ability to deliver fluids swiftly and accommodate blood transfusions if needed. This can be vital for managing situations like dehydration, hemorrhage, or other emergencies that can arise during pregnancy. The antepartum period is when the nurse must prepare for potential complications that can occur due to gestational conditions, making efficient intravenous access an important priority.

Other actions, such as requesting a prescription for methotrexate or obtaining an hCG level, are more relevant to specific medical conditions but are not universally indicated for all clients in the antepartum unit. Likewise, positioning the client for cervical dilation assessment typically occurs in the intrapartum stage rather than during the antepartum period. Thus, the action of inserting a large-bore catheter aligns well with the overarching needs for safety and preparedness during the antepartum phase.