A nurse is attending to a client who is receiving opioid epidural analgesia during labor. Which of the following observations should the nurse prioritize?
The client reports profuse itching.
Temperature 38.2°C (100.8°F).
Blood pressure 80/56 mm Hg.
The client reports weakness of the lower extremities.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While itching can be a side effect of opioid analgesics, it is not the priority observation. Itching can be uncomfortable for the client, but it is not life-threatening.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38.2°C (100.8°F) indicates a low-grade fever. While this should be monitored, it is not the priority observation in this situation.
Choice C rationale
The priority observation is the client’s blood pressure. Opioid epidural analgesia can cause hypotension, which can lead to inadequate perfusion to the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Weakness of the lower extremities can be a side effect of epidural analgesia, but it is not the priority observation. The nurse should monitor for this, but it is not as critical as monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A,B,C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the newborn’s capillary blood glucose level is important, especially for a large for gestational age newborn. Large for gestational age newborns are at risk for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) after birth. Therefore, regular monitoring of the newborn’s blood glucose level is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer can help regulate the baby’s body temperature. Newborns, especially those who are large for gestational age, may have difficulty maintaining their body temperature after birth. A radiant warmer can provide the extra warmth the baby needs.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s temperature is important as newborns can lose heat rapidly, they don’t have the ability to control their body temperature as adults do. Temperature regulation in newborns is important to help them stay healthy and comfortable.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s color and frequency of bowel movements is not directly related to the condition described. While it’s an important aspect of newborn care, it’s not a priority in this scenario.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Heart rate of 170. A heart rate of 170 is not a symptom of transient tachypnea of the newborn.
Choice B rationale
Grunting or sighing with respirations. This is a symptom of transient tachypnea of the newborn.
Choice C rationale
Nasal flaring. This is a symptom of transient tachypnea of the newborn.
Choice D rationale
Respirations of 72. This is a symptom of transient tachypnea of the newborn.
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