A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is receiving epidural anesthesia for pain management during labor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Remind the client to void every 4 hr.
Encourage the client to alternate from side to side every 2 hr.
Raise the four side rails on the client's bed.
Monitor the client's blood pressure.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not remind the client to void every 4 hours because epidural anesthesia can cause temporary loss of bladder sensation, making it difficult for the client to know when to void. Instead, the nurse should use a bladder scanner to assess for urinary retention and encourage the client to void regularly.
Choice B reason:
Encouraging the client to alternate from side to side every 2 hours is not directly related to the administration of epidural anesthesia. This action is commonly advised for clients who are on bed rest to prevent pressure ulcers and promote circulation. However, it is not specifically necessary for the client receiving epidural anesthesia for pain management during labor.
Choice C reason:
Raising the four side rails on the client's bed is not necessary in this situation. The use of side rails should be based on the client's mobility and risk assessment for falls. If the client is receiving epidural anesthesia, they may experience reduced mobility, but the decision to use side rails should be made on an individual basis, not solely based on the anesthesia.
Choice D reason:
Monitoring the client's blood pressure is a crucial action when a client is receiving epidural anesthesia. Epidural anesthesia can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. By regularly monitoring the client's blood pressure, the nurse can detect any significant changes and take appropriate actions to maintain hemodynamic stability.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse's priority in this situation is the respiratory rate of 10/min. A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute is significantly low and could indicate respiratory depression, especially if the patient is receiving morphine, which is known to depress the respiratory system. This could lead to inadequate oxygenation, potential hypoxia, and other life-threatening complications.
Choice B reason:
Bladder distention may be a concern, but it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. Bladder distention can cause discomfort and urinary retention, but it is not an immediate life- threatening condition compared to potential respiratory depression.
Choice C reason:
A blood pressure of 108/64 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adolescent and may not be the nurse's priority at this time. Although it should be monitored, it does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life.
Choice D reason:
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of morphine administration, but they are not the nurse's priority in this situation. While they can cause distress and discomfort to the patient, they are not life-threatening conditions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"I should start trying to breastfeed within an hour of having my baby.” Choice A reason:
The client's statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth is crucial for successful breastfeeding. This early initiation allows the baby to receive colostrum, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies, supporting the baby's immune system and providing essential nutrition during the initial stages of life. Additionally, early breastfeeding helps establish a strong bond between the mother and the baby while promoting the baby's suckling reflex.
Choice B reason:
The statement in Choice B is incorrect. Formula feeding between breastfeedings is not recommended in the early stages of breastfeeding, especially if the baby loses 5 percent of their birth weight. Newborns often lose some weight initially, which is normal, and it can be regained through effective breastfeeding. Supplementing with formula may interfere with establishing a good milk supply and the baby's ability to latch properly.
Choice C reason:
This statement in Choice C is incorrect. During breastfeeding sessions, it's essential for the baby to nurse on one breast fully before switching to the other breast. Allowing the baby to nurse for at least 10-15 minutes on each breast ensures they receive the hindmilk, which is higher in fat and essential for the baby's growth and development.
Choice D reason:
The statement in Choice D is incorrect. Offering a pacifier right after breastfeeding might interfere with the baby's feeding cues and lead to decreased breastfeeding frequency.
Newborns may suck for non-nutritive reasons, and offering a pacifier too soon can hinder proper breastfeeding establishment, as they may satisfy their sucking needs with the pacifier rather than nursing at the breast.
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