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
Potential Condition: Preterm labor. Based on the information provided, the patient is most likely experiencing preterm labor. Actions to Take: Administer tocolytics. If the patient is in preterm labor, the nurse should administer tocolytics to try to stop the contractions. Parameters to Monitor: Frequency of contractions. The nurse should monitor the frequency of contractions to assess the patient’s progress.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Gravida 4 Para 3 at 33 weeks of gestation is not an alarming finding. It simply indicates that the woman is pregnant for the fourth time and has had three previous deliveries. This is a normal part of the woman’s obstetric history and does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B rationale
Allergies, such as a sulfa allergy, are important to note in the patient’s medical history. However, unless the patient is being prescribed a medication that she is allergic to, this information does not need to be urgently reported to the provider.
Choice C rationale
A height of 165 cm (66 in), weight of 82 kg (180 lb), and BMI of 30.6 are all within normal ranges for a pregnant woman. These measurements are part of routine prenatal care and do not need to be urgently reported to the provider.
Choice D rationale
A weight gain of 32 kg (7 lb) over the last 2 weeks is concerning. Rapid weight gain can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure. This should be reported to the provider immediately.
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