Final answer:
The nurse should explain the labor and delivery processes and management of potential complications to Ashley again, to ensure she fully understands them, before providing her with the pen she requested.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Ashley, the patient, only responds with "I think so" to the nurse's question about understanding the labor and delivery processes, it shows uncertainty. Given this, the action the nurse should take is to explain the information again in a different way. This is important to ensure Ashley fully understands the process, potential complications, and management of those complications. It is essential that patients have a clear understanding of what to expect, as this can positively impact the overall experience and outcome.
Moreover, as Ashley asked for a pen, it could indicate she wants to take notes or write down questions, which is a proactive approach that should be encouraged. However, before providing the pen, the nurse should first ensure that Ashley has a thorough understanding of the information provided by the healthcare provider.