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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Schedule the client for an aPTT test. An aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) test is used to monitor heparin therapy and is not relevant following an amniocentesis unless the client has a known bleeding disorder, which is not indicated here.
B. Collect a blood sample from the client for a direct Coombs test. The direct Coombs test is typically performed on newborns, not the mother, to detect antibodies attached to red blood cells. It is not a routine part of post-amniocentesis care.
C. Monitor the client for uterine contractions. After an amniocentesis, it is essential to monitor for signs of preterm labor, including uterine contractions. The procedure can irritate the uterus and potentially trigger contractions, especially at 34 weeks gestation.
D. Administer Rho(D) Immune globulin if the client is Rh positive. Rho(D) Immune globulin is given to Rh-negative clients after procedures like amniocentesis to prevent isoimmunization. It is not indicated for Rh-positive individuals.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Naltrexone. This medication is used for opioid and alcohol use disorders. It helps reduce cravings and the pleasurable effects of those substances but is not indicated for smoking cessation.
B. Chlordiazepoxide. This is a benzodiazepine used to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, tremors, and agitation. It is not appropriate for treating nicotine dependence.
C. Clonidine. Although primarily used for hypertension, clonidine has been used off-label to manage symptoms of opioid or nicotine withdrawal. However, it is not the first-line agent for smoking cessation.
D. Bupropion. This is an antidepressant also approved for smoking cessation. It helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms and is often prescribed under the brand name Zyban for this purpose.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.