What should be the nurse's action if contractions occur less than 2 minutes apart while administering oxytocin?

When contractions occur less than 2 minutes apart during the administration of oxytocin, the most appropriate action is to stop the infusion and turn the client to the left side. This approach is rooted in the understanding of uterine hyperstimulation, which can occur with oxytocin administration, leading to inadequate relaxation between contractions.

By stopping the infusion, the nurse alleviates the potential for excessive uterine activity, which can compromise fetal well-being and increase the risk of complications. Turning the client to the left side is particularly effective as it enhances uteroplacental blood flow and can decrease any pressure on the umbilical cord, thus promoting better fetal oxygenation during periods of frequent contractions.

Other actions, such as continuing the infusion or increasing the rate, would exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to severe fetal distress due to insufficient recovery time between contractions. Administering pain relief, while important for patient comfort, does not address the underlying concern of hyperstimulation and may delay appropriate management of the situation. Therefore, stopping the infusion and positioning the client appropriately are critical steps to ensure both maternal and fetal safety.