Final answer:
After a seizure, the nurse should immediately assess the fetal heart rate to monitor the baby's condition. Oxygen may be administered as needed and anticonvulsant medication may follow based on physician's orders.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse is caring for a client who's 26 weeks gestation and has epilepsy. After observing the patient having a seizure and turning the patient's head to one side, the nurse should immediately take several key actions to ensure both the mother's and fetus's safety.
The primary action the nurse should take immediately after the seizure is to assess the fetal heart rate. This is vital to monitor the baby's condition and well-being, as a seizure can cause changes to fetal heart rate and oxygenation. After ensuring that the patient's airway is clear and they are breathing adequately, the nurse may also provide supplemental oxygen via face mask, especially if there is any evidence of respiratory compromise. Insertion of an oral airway is not recommended post-seizure unless the patient is unable to maintain their airway, as this could trigger another seizure or cause injury. Administering an anticonvulsant medication would be based on the physician's orders and typically follows assessment and stabilization measures.