A nurse is caring for a client in the second stage of labor who does not want any tools used to assist with the vaginal birth. Which of the following interventions should the nurse understand will help prevent an assisted vaginal birth? (Select All that Apply.)

Given:

Desired dose: Digoxin 0.25 mg PO daily

Available concentration: Digoxin 500 mcg/10 mL

To find:

Volume to administer (in mL)

Step 1: Convert desired dose to micrograms

We know that 1 milligram (mg) is equal to 1000 micrograms (mcg). Therefore, to convert the desired dose from mg to mcg, we multiply by 1000:

Desired dose (mcg) = Desired dose (mg)x 1000

Desired dose (mcg) = 0.25 mg x 1000 = 250 mcg

Step 2: Set up the proportion

We can use the following proportion to solve the problem:

(Desired dose) / (Available concentration) = Volume to administer

Step 3: Substitute the values

Plugging in the given values, we get:

(250 mcg) / (500 mcg/10 mL) = Volume to administer

Step 4: Simplify

To simplify, we can invert the denominator and multiply:

(250 mcg) x (10 mL / 500 mcg) = Volume to administer

The "mcg" units cancel out, leaving us with:

(250 x 10 mL) / 500 = Volume to administer

Step 5: Calculate

Performing the multiplication and division, we get:

2500/ 500 = Volume to administer

5 mL = Volume to administer

A) Practicing effleurage on the abdomen:
It is an excellent non-pharmacological pain management technique that can help distract the mother, reduce anxiety, and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with early labor. It also promotes relaxation and can help manage early labor pain effectively without the need for medications. This technique is easy to perform and can be done by the nurse or the partner, providing emotional support along with pain relief.

B) Beginning epidural anesthesia:
Epidural anesthesia is typically not initiated in the early phase of labor unless there is a specific indication or a desire for significant pain relief early in the process. An epidural is more commonly offered in the later stages of labor, when the pain is more intense and the cervix is further dilated. Starting an epidural too early could expose the mother to unnecessary risks and is generally not recommended unless it's requested or deemed medically necessary.

C) Using an opioid antagonist, such as Butorphanol:
Opioids, including Butorphanol, can have side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and respiratory depression in both the mother and fetus. These medications are more commonly used in later stages of labor or when more potent pain relief is required. Additionally, opioid antagonists like Butorphanol may not be the best choice for a client who is experiencing anxiety and mild to moderate pain in the early phase, as they may not provide the relaxation and coping support that non-pharmacological methods like effleurage offer.

D) Immersing the client in hot water in a pool or Jacuzzi:
While immersion in water can be a helpful method of pain relief, especially during labor, it is generally recommended in the later stages of labor or when the cervix is dilated enough for water immersion to be safely utilized. Immersion in hot water may not be appropriate for all patients and could potentially lead to risks like overheating or changes in blood pressure. Additionally, the early phase of labor often involves less intense pain, and less invasive methods like effleurage are usually preferred first to manage discomfort and reduce anxiety.