What action should a nurse take for an adolescent concerned about her ability to afford and care for her baby?

Assisting the adolescent in applying for Medicaid is centered on ensuring that she has access to the necessary healthcare services for both herself and her baby. Medicaid provides health coverage that can significantly alleviate the financial burden often associated with prenatal care, childbirth, and pediatric care. This is particularly important for adolescents who may lack the financial resources to afford these services on their own.

By facilitating access to Medicaid, the nurse is actively supporting the adolescent's health and the health of her baby, empowering her with the means to seek medical assistance as needed. This approach also provides the adolescent with a safety net, ensuring she does not neglect her health or the health of her child due to cost concerns.

While finding a job, discussing parenting classes, or recommending foster care options may also be beneficial, the immediate concern regarding affordability and care directly points to the necessity of healthcare coverage, making Medicaid assistance the most pertinent action to support her situation right now.