Ella arrives at the birthing facility and reports that she is in labor at 37 weeks gestation. Her vital signs and the FHR (Fetal heart rate) are within expected ranges. You palpate her uterine contractions. What should you do next?
1) Perform a vaginal examination to assess cervical dilation and effacement
2) Administer pain medication to relieve her discomfort
3) Monitor the FHR continuously
4) Prepare for a cesarean section