When assessing a patient receiving oxytocin via IV infusion for labor induction, what should be the nurse's priority action?

The priority action when assessing a patient receiving oxytocin via IV infusion for labor induction is to perform electronic fetal monitoring. This is essential because oxytocin can impact uterine contractions and fetal heart rate. Continuous fetal monitoring helps healthcare providers assess the fetal response to contractions induced by oxytocin, identifying any signs of fetal distress or compromise, such as changes in heart rate patterns.

Monitoring the fetus allows the nurse to determine whether the medication is having the desired effect on labor and to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Documentation of the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions is crucial in making timely clinical decisions and interventions if abnormalities arise.

While monitoring blood pressure, assessing pain levels, and administering prescribed medications are also important nursing responsibilities, they do not take precedence over the need for electronic fetal monitoring in this context. The potential for oxytocin to cause tachysystole (excessive uterine contractions) and its impact on fetal well-being makes fetal monitoring the most critical action during labor induction with this medication.