What should the nurse do after administering nalbuphine to a primigravida in active labor and noting stable fetal heart rate variability?

Choosing to document the findings, including fetal heart rate, after administering nalbuphine is essential because it ensures accurate and thorough record-keeping of the patient's condition and the effects of the medication administered. Proper documentation serves as a legal record and provides necessary information for other healthcare team members who may participate in the patient's care.

In the context of labor and delivery, monitoring and documenting fetal heart rate variability is crucial since it provides insights into the infant's well-being and response to interventions. By recording these metrics, the nurse contributes to continuity of care and supports further assessments that may be needed.

Monitoring for side effects of the drug is undoubtedly important as well, but documentation solidifies the immediate actions taken and the baseline status prior to any potential side effects occurring. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately is unnecessary when stable fetal heart rate variability has been observed, as it indicates that there are no immediate concerns at that moment. While reassessing the pain levels is certainly a relevant action post-administration, documentation encompasses a broader scope of patient monitoring and management communication, making it a priority in this scenario.