Final answer:
The nursing action indicated when a nonreassuring fetal heart rate is detected with the mother on her left side is to change the mother's position to improve blood flow and oxygenation to the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nonreassuring pattern of the fetal heart rate is noted and the mother is lying on her left side, the indicated nursing action is to change the mother's position. This intervention is aimed at alleviating potential compression of blood vessels which could be contributing to the nonreassuring fetal heart rate. If the fetus is experiencing distress due to contractions that are reducing oxygenated blood flow, repositioning the mother could improve uterine blood flow and fetal oxygenation. Although administering oxygen, increasing IV fluid rate, and preparing for an emergency cesarean section can be necessary in some cases of fetal distress, changing position is a first and immediate step to be taken before escalating to other interventions.