A woman in labor has just received an epidural black. The most important nursing intervention is to:
Monitor the maternal pulse for possible bradycardia
Monitor the maternal blood pressure for possible hypotension.
Monitor the fetus for possible tachycardia.
Limit parenteral fluids
The Correct Answer is B
Epidural blocks are commonly used during labor to provide pain relief. However, they can also cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, known as epidural-induced hypotension, which can affect fetal oxygenation and fetal heart rate. Therefore, it is important to monitor maternal blood pressure frequently after an epidural block is administered.
While monitoring the maternal pulse is also important, hypotension is the most common complication of epidural anesthesia and can lead to decreased blood flow to the fetus. Therefore, monitoring maternal blood pressure is the priority.
Monitoring the fetus is also important, but it is not the most important intervention after an epidural block. Limiting parenteral fluids may be necessary in some cases to help prevent or treat hypotension, but it is not always necessary and should be done based on the individual situation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Suprapubic pressure aids in the delivery of the fetal shoulders, and delivery of the fetal head. to control postpartum hemorrhage and to assess uterine tone after delivery.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
In the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord, the first priority intervention is to relieve pressure on the cord. Placing the woman in the knee-chest position or Trendelenburg position with the hips elevated is the best way to achieve this. This position helps to reduce the compression of the cord and improve fetal oxygenation.
Option B is incorrect because while oxygen may be necessary, relieving pressure on the cord is the priority.
Option C is incorrect because a vaginal birth should not proceed with a prolapsed umbilical cord, as it can cause cord compression and fetal distress.
Option D is incorrect because covering the cord in sterile gauze soaked in saline is not a priority intervention and may not be effective in relieving pressure on the cord.
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