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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Physiologic jaundice is a common condition in newborns, usually appearing between the second and fourth day of life. It is caused by an increase in bilirubin, a substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.
Choice B rationale
Maternal/newborn blood group incompatibility can cause jaundice, but it typically appears within the first 24 hours of life.
Choice C rationale
Maternal cocaine abuse can lead to various complications in the newborn, but it does not directly cause jaundice.
Choice D rationale
Absence of vitamin K does not cause jaundice. Vitamin K is given to newborns to prevent bleeding disorders.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A nonstress test (NST) is a test during pregnancy that measures the baby’s heart rate and response to movement. It is designed to ensure the baby is doing well and getting enough oxygen. Your provider might order it during the third trimester if you’re experiencing certain complications.
Choice B rationale
During pregnancy, women need nutrient-rich sources of carbohydrate, in the right amounts. Restriction of simple carbohydrates has been shown to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia, fetal glucose exposure, and fetal overgrowth. Therefore, encouraging the patient to limit carbohydrate intake to 40% of their daily calories could be beneficial.
Choice C rationale
Checking a random blood glucose level once daily is not typically recommended during pregnancy. Instead, blood glucose levels are usually checked at specific times, such as fasting (before breakfast), before other meals, and 1 hour after meals. This helps to provide more accurate information about how the body is managing blood glucose levels throughout the day.
Choice D rationale
Metformin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. It can also be used to treat women with gestational diabetes mellitus (diabetes that develops during pregnancy)7. Given the patient’s history and risk factors, it would be reasonable to anticipate a prescription for metformin.
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