A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an epidural anesthesia block. The client's blood pressure is 80/40 mm Hg, and the fetal heart rate is 140/min. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?
Elevate the client's legs.
Place the client in a lateral position.
Monitor vital signs every 5 minutes.
Notify the provider.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: Elevating the client's legs is a measure to increase blood flow to the brain in cases of orthostatic hypotension but may not be sufficient to improve fetal oxygenation in this situation. The lateral position is preferred as it improves uterine perfusion.
Choice B: The client's blood pressure of 80/40 mm Hg indicates hypotension, which can be a common side effect of epidural anesthesia. The priority nursing action is to place the client in a lateral (sidelying) position to improve blood flow to vital organs, including the uterus and placenta, and prevent further compromise of fetal oxygenation.
Choice C: Monitoring vital signs every 5 minutes is an important nursing action, but the priority in this situation is to address the hypotension and improve maternal and fetal wellbeing first.
Choice D: Notifying the provider is an important step, but it should not be the first action. Immediate intervention to address the hypotension is required to improve fetal oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) The largest fetal diameter has passed through the pelvic outlet: This is an incorrect
interpretation of station 0. Station 0 means that the presenting part is at the level of the ischial spines, not fully descended through the pelvic outlet.
B) The lowermost portion of the presenting part is at the level of the ischial spines: This is the correct interpretation of station 0. Station 0 is the landmark at which the presenting part is at the level of the ischial spines in the maternal pelvis.
C) The posterior fontanel is palpable: The position of the fontanelle is not related to the station of the presenting part.
D) The fetal head is in the left occiput posterior position: The position of the fetal head is not indicated by the station measurement.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Weightbearing exercises should be avoided or limited during pregnancy, as they can increase the risk of injury, joint pain, and fatigue.
B. Correct. Moderate exercise can improve circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent varicose veins during pregnancy.
C. Incorrect. Resting for 30 minutes before each new exercise is not necessary and may reduce the benefits of physical activity.
D. Incorrect. Stretching exercises can help prevent muscle cramps, improve flexibility, and reduce back pain during pregnancy.
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