What should the nurse include in the care plan since she is a candidate for infection? A woman who is 32 years old and 35 weeks pregnant has had rupture of membranes for eight hours and is four (4) cm dilated.

Frequent temperature monitoring.

Temperature elevation will indicate beginning infection. This is the most important measure to help assess the client for infections since the lost mucous plug and the ruptured membranes increase the potential for ascending bacteria from the reproductive tract. This will infect the fetus. membranes. and uterine cavity.Option A: Universal precautions are necessary for all clients but a specific assessment of the clients temperature will give an indication the client is becoming infected.Option B: Oxytocin may be needed to induce labor if it is not progressing. but it is not done initially.Option D: More frequent vaginal examinations are not recommended. as frequent vaginal exams can increase chances of infection.