When monitoring a client for decreased fetal movement at 35 weeks' gestation, what must the nurse assess?

Monitoring fetal heart rate patterns is crucial when assessing decreased fetal movement in a client at 35 weeks' gestation. Fetal heart rate patterns provide insight into the well-being of the fetus and can indicate potential distress. A reassuring heart rate pattern, characterized by a normal range of variability and accelerations, typically suggests that the fetus is still healthy, even if movements are reduced. Conversely, abnormal heart rate patterns may signal complications, necessitating further evaluation and potential interventions.

While assessing fetal position, maternal blood pressure, and maternal dietary intake could provide pertinent information regarding the overall health and circumstances surrounding the pregnancy, they do not directly address the immediate concern of decreased fetal movement. The fetal heart rate is a direct indicator of fetal condition, making it the most relevant assessment in this context.