A nurse is assessing a client who is in active labor and just received an epidural. Which of the following findings should the nurse document as an adverse effect?
Tachypnea
Hyperreflexia
Hypothermia
Hypotension
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Tachypnea: An increased respiratory rate is not commonly associated with epidural anesthesia and is not a typical adverse effect. It may result from anxiety or pain but does not directly indicate a problem with the epidural.
B. Hyperreflexia: Epidurals often reduce sensation and reflexes, not heighten them. Hyperreflexia is not expected and would not be a direct adverse effect of epidural administration during labor.
C. Hypothermia: While mild temperature changes may occur, hypothermia is not a common or significant adverse effect of epidural anesthesia. It is not typically monitored as a key complication.
D. Hypotension: Epidural anesthesia can cause vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerve fibers, leading to a drop in maternal blood pressure. This is a well-known and common adverse effect requiring close monitoring and potential intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Temperature 36.8° C (98° F): This temperature is within the normal range and does not suggest a current or impending infection. It indicates stable thermoregulation in the postoperative period.
B. White blood cell count 8,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): This WBC count falls within the normal reference range and does not reflect infection or inflammation. No abnormal immune response is indicated by this result.
C. Body mass index of 32: A BMI over 30 is classified as obesity, which increases the risk of poor wound healing and surgical site infections. Excess adipose tissue can impair circulation, oxygenation, and immune response at the wound site.
D. Blood glucose 90 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL): This is a normal fasting glucose level and does not contribute to infection risk. Well-controlled glucose levels are favorable for wound healing and immune function.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Pale and a 24-hr fluid deficit of 30 mL: Mild pallor and a small fluid deficit are not uncommon in early stages of illness and may not require immediate intervention. However, more serious signs of dehydration would take priority for reporting.
B. Temperature 38° C (100.4° F) and pulse rate 124/min: These are within expected limits for an infant with mild infection or fever. While they should be monitored, they are not urgent indicators of severe complications from gastroenteritis.
C. Decreased appetite and irritability: These are common symptoms in infants with viral illnesses, including gastroenteritis. Although they affect comfort and feeding, they are not necessarily indicators of serious fluid or electrolyte imbalance.
D. Sunken fontanels and dry mucous membranes: These are clinical signs of moderate to severe dehydration, which is a serious complication of gastroenteritis in infants. These findings must be reported promptly for urgent intervention to prevent further deterioration.
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