In a client who is positive for GBS and in active labor, what immediate action should the nurse take?

In a client who is positive for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and in active labor, the most important immediate action for the nurse is to administer intravenous (IV) antibiotic prophylaxis. This intervention is crucial because GBS can be transmitted to the newborn during delivery, which may lead to serious infections such as sepsis or meningitis. Administering antibiotics before the onset of labor or during labor reduces the risk of passing the bacteria to the infant significantly.

The timing of antibiotic prophylaxis is vital; it is typically recommended to start the IV antibiotics at least four hours before delivery to ensure adequate protection for the newborn. Therefore, recognizing the GBS status and promptly initiating treatment is a priority.

While monitoring fetal heart rate, conducting a vaginal examination, or placing the client in a birthing position are all important nursing tasks during labor, they do not address the immediate risk of GBS transmission and do not have the same critical impact on the outcome for the newborn. Thus, the administration of IV antibiotics takes precedence over these other actions in this situation.