When an external ultrasound transducer indicates a fetal heart rate of 75, but the baseline shows 145 beats per minute, what should the nurse do to verify the fetal heart rate?

When an external ultrasound transducer indicates a fetal heart rate of 75 while the baseline shows 145 beats per minute, it raises concern about the accuracy of the fetal heart rate reading. To verify the fetal heart rate accurately, palpating the maternal pulse while auscultating the fetal heart is essential. This process allows the nurse to differentiate between the maternal and fetal heart rates. By palpating the maternal pulse, the nurse can confirm whether the reading of 75 might actually be reflecting the maternal heart rate instead of the fetal heart rate.

Assessing the maternal pulse offers a direct comparison, which can clarify any discrepancies in heart rate readings. This action enhances the reliability of the monitoring process, ensuring that appropriate clinical decisions can be made regarding the fetal well-being.

While checking maternal blood pressure, increasing monitor sensitivity, or changing the mother's position are all valid actions that might be appropriate in various clinical situations, they do not directly address the immediate need to confirm the fetal heart rate as effectively as auscultating the fetal heart while palpating the maternal pulse. Therefore, it is the best choice in this scenario to ensure the accuracy of the fetal heart rate assessment.