A nurse is caring for a primigravida whose cervix is 2 cm dilated, 75% effaced, and the fetal presenting part is at +2 station.
The patient says to the nurse, “I want an epidural now.Why won’t someone give me an epidural?” Which response is most appropriate for the nurse to make?
“Your labor may slow down if you receive an epidural now.”.
“You need to be at least eight centimeters dilated prior to receiving an epidural.”.
“You will need to be catheterized prior to receiving an epidural.”.
“Your baby needs to be at zero station before you can have an epidural.”.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A. “Your labor may slow down if you receive an epidural now.” An epidural is a type of regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a specific area of the body.
It can be used to reduce pain during labor and delivery.
However, an epidural can also have some side effects, such as lowering blood pressure, causing fever, and slowing down labor progress.
Therefore, it is usually recommended to wait until the cervix is at least 4 to 5 cm dilated and the contractions are strong and regular before receiving an epidural.
Choice B is wrong because there is no fixed rule about how dilated the cervix needs to be before receiving an epidural.
Some women may receive an epidural earlier or later than others, depending on their pain level, medical history, and preferences.
Choice C is wrong because catheterization is not a prerequisite for receiving an epidural.
Catheterization is the insertion of a tube into the bladder to drain urine.
It may be done after receiving an epidural because the anesthesia can affect the ability to urinate.
However, it is not required before receiving an epidural.
Choice D is wrong because the station of the baby does not determine when a woman can have an epidural.
The station of the baby refers to how far the baby has descended into the pelvis.
It is measured in relation to the ischial spines, which are bony landmarks in the pelvis.
A positive station means that the baby is below the spines, while a negative station means that the baby is above the spines.
Zero station means that the baby is at the level of the spines.
The station of the baby does not affect the administration of an epidural, as long as there are no other complications or contraindications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Cesarean delivery.A pregnant patient with genital herpes is at higher risk of transmitting the infection to the baby during vaginal delivery, especially if there is an active outbreak near the time of birth.This can cause serious complications for the baby, such as brain damage, eye problems, or even death.Therefore, a cesarean delivery is recommended to avoid contact between the baby and the genital lesions.
Choice A is wrong because forceps-assisted second stage of labor is not a complication of genital herpes.
It is a method of assisted delivery that may be used for various reasons, such as fetal distress, maternal exhaustion, or abnormal presentation.
Choice B is wrong because precipitous delivery, which means a very fast labor and delivery, is not a complication of genital herpes.
It may be caused by factors such as multiparity, strong contractions, or previous rapid deliveries.
Choice C is wrong because prolonged first phase of labor, which means a slow dilation of the cervix, is not a complication of genital herpes.
It may be caused by factors such as ineffective contractions, large fetal size, or malposition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Stretching your legs and pointing your toes toward your knee will bring relief from the leg cramps.This is because stretching can help relax the muscle and ease the spasm.
Choice A is wrong because elevating your legs may not help with leg cramps, and may actually worsen them by reducing blood flow to the muscles.
Choice B is wrong because massaging your legs may not be enough to relieve the cramps, and may also cause more pain if done too hard or too fast.
Choice D is wrong because putting a cold compress on the calf of your leg may not be effective for leg cramps, and may also cause more discomfort or inflammation.
Leg cramps are common during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimester.They are caused by various factors, such as pregnancy weight gain, changes in blood circulation, pressure on the nerves and blood vessels, nutrient deficiency, lack of exercise, or fluid buildup in your legs.To prevent or reduce leg cramps, you should drink plenty of water, stay active, eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, wear comfortable shoes and socks, and sleep on your left side with a pillow under or between your legs.
If leg cramps persist or become severe, you should consult your healthcare provider for possible treatment options.
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