A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has received an epidural. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Decrease the maintenance infusion rate of IV fluid.
Have protamine sulfate available at the bedside.
Reposition the client side-to-side each hour.
Monitor the client for hypertension
The Correct Answer is C
A. Decrease the maintenance infusion rate of IV fluid. Epidural anesthesia can cause hypotension, so IV fluids are often used to help maintain blood pressure. Reducing the fluid rate may increase the risk of hypotensive episodes.
B. Have protamine sulfate available at the bedside. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, not relevant to epidural anesthesia. It is not required in the management of epidural-related side effects.
C. Reposition the client side-to-side each hour. Frequent repositioning helps prevent pressure injuries, promotes fetal oxygenation, and encourages effective labor progression. It also aids in the distribution of the anesthetic agent.
D. Monitor the client for hypertension. Hypotension, not hypertension, is a common adverse effect of epidural anesthesia due to vasodilation and decreased peripheral resistance. Blood pressure should be monitored closely for drops.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hydrocodone. This is an opioid analgesic appropriate for moderate to severe pain, such as a pain rating of 7/10. It is commonly used for acute pain management in cases like fractures and provides effective relief when non-opioids are insufficient.
B. Acetaminophen. While useful for mild to moderate pain, acetaminophen alone is likely inadequate for severe pain like that associated with a fracture rated 7/10.
C. Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a potent opioid used for severe or chronic pain, often in controlled settings such as surgery or cancer care. For an acute fracture, hydrocodone is typically preferred unless pain is extreme or uncontrolled.
D. Aspirin. Aspirin is primarily used for mild pain or anti-inflammatory purposes and is not appropriate as a first-line agent for severe pain. Additionally, it may increase the risk of bleeding, which is a consideration in trauma cases.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Tell the nurses that the assignments will be more equitable in the future. While this acknowledges their concern, it does not involve the nurses in the resolution process or address the root of the conflict through direct communication.
B. Ask each nurse to take turns making the assignments. This may temporarily reduce tension but avoids addressing the underlying issues of perceived favoritism and does not encourage collaboration or accountability.
C. Encourage collaboration between the two nurses when making the assignments. This approach promotes open communication, mutual understanding, and shared decision-making, which are key elements of collaborative conflict resolution. It allows both nurses to express their perspectives and work toward a fair and balanced outcome.
D. Arrange for the nurses to have as few shifts together as possible. This strategy avoids the conflict rather than resolving it, which may only delay or worsen interpersonal issues over time. It also limits opportunities for growth and team building.
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