A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving epidural analgesia during labor. Which of the following findings is the nurse's first priority?
Temperature 38.2°C (100.8°F)
The client reports reduced sensation of the lower extremities.
The client reports generalized itching.
Blood pressure 80/52 mm Hg
The Correct Answer is D
A: Elevated temperature during labor may be common and is not the nurse's first priority, especially when the client is receiving epidural analgesia, as it can be related to the stress of labor or other factors.
B: Reduced sensation of the lower extremities is an expected effect of epidural analgesia, and it is not the nurse's first priority unless it leads to complications such as motor weakness or respiratory distress.
C: Generalized itching is a common side effect of epidural analgesia due to opioids, and it can be managed with interventions such as antihistamines. However, it is not the nurse's first priority unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
D: Epidural analgesia can cause vasodilation and decrease the client's blood pressure, which can lead to hypotension. Hypotension can be detrimental to both the mother and the baby and requires immediate attention to prevent complications. Therefore, the nurse's first priority is to address the low blood pressure.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Increase your intake of ironrich foods and take a prenatal vitamin."
Important, but not directly related to reducing the risk of neural tube defects. Ironrich foods and prenatal vitamins are essential for overall maternal and fetal health, but they do not specifically target neural tube defect prevention.
B. "Avoid any alcohol consumption."
Important advice during pregnancy to prevent fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, but not directly related to reducing the risk of neural tube defects.
C. "Take a folic acid supplement for at least 3 months before you get pregnant."
Correct: Adequate folic acid intake before conception and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects in newborns.
D. "Avoid all foods containing aspartame."Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that has been studied for safety in pregnancy, and there is currently no strong evidence linking it to neural tube defects. However, it's still a good idea
to limit the intake of artificial sweeteners during pregnancy and focus on a balanced diet.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: "I should not drink alcoholic beverages during my pregnancy." Correct, as alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other adverse outcomes.
Choice B: "I should drink about 2 liters of fluid each day." Correct, as adequate hydration is essential during pregnancy.
Choice C: "I can have a moderate amount of caffeine daily." Correct, as moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe during pregnancy (around 200300 mg per day).
Choice D: During pregnancy, certain fish types can be high in mercury, which can be harmful to the developing fetus. Fish with high mercury levels should be limited or avoided during pregnancy.
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