Final answer:
The initial nursing action when evidence of a prolapsed cord is found is to reposition the mother with her hips higher than her head to alleviate pressure on the cord, followed by notifying the physician and preparing for an emergency cesarean delivery.
Step-by-step explanation:
When evidence of a prolapsed umbilical cord is found, the first action a nurse must initiate is d. Reposition the mother with her hips higher than her head. This maneuver, known as the Trendelenburg position or a knee-chest position, can help to relieve pressure on the prolapsed cord, which if compressed can lead to fetal hypoxia due to compromised blood flow. The nurse's immediate priority is to alleviate cord compression while preparing for further emergency interventions, such as an emergency cesarean delivery.
Once the mother is repositioned, the nurse or another team member should notify the physician right away. The physician will typically order an emergency cesarean delivery if the baby is not able to be delivered promptly via vaginal birth to ensure the safety of both mother and baby since a prolapsed cord is a critical emergency.