The nurse is monitoring a client in active labor who has an epidural in place. Which of the following findings should be reported to the anesthesiologist immediately? (Select All that Apply.)
Slurred speech
Respiratory depression
Decreased sensation in the lower extremities
Sustained fetal heart rate of 150 bpm
Blood pressure 108/62
Correct Answer : A,B
A. Slurred speech – Slurred speech may indicate systemic absorption of the epidural medication, leading to toxicity or excessive central nervous system depression, which requires immediate intervention.
B. Respiratory depression – A serious complication of epidural anesthesia is respiratory depression, which may result from excessive medication spread, affecting respiratory function. Immediate intervention is required.
C. Decreased sensation in the lower extremities – This is an expected effect of an epidural and does not necessarily require immediate reporting unless it extends beyond expected levels.
D. Sustained fetal heart rate of 150 bpm – This fetal heart rate is within the normal range (110-160 bpm) and does not indicate distress.
E. Blood pressure 108/62 – While hypotension can be a side effect of epidural anesthesia, this blood pressure is within an acceptable range for many clients and does not require immediate intervention unless the client is symptomatic.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Unexplained weight gain
This is incorrect because weight gain is not a characteristic symptom of endometriosis. Endometriosis primarily affects the reproductive organs and is associated with pain and infertility rather than metabolic or weight-related changes.
B. Pain during menstrual period
This is correct because dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is a hallmark symptom of endometriosis due to the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue responding to hormonal changes.
C. Pain during intercourse
This is correct because dyspareunia (pain during intercourse) is a common symptom of endometriosis due to the inflammatory and fibrotic changes caused by ectopic endometrial tissue.
D. Infertility
This is correct because endometriosis can lead to infertility due to scarring, adhesions, and inflammation affecting the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Many clients with endometriosis seek medical attention due to difficulty conceiving.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"B"},"F":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
Priority concerns:
Liver function tests: The client has elevated ALT (75 U/L), AST (78 U/L), alkaline phosphatase (184 U/L), and LDH (250 U/L), which are consistent with liver involvement in preeclampsia with severe features. This suggests hepatic dysfunction and possible progression to HELLP syndrome.
Blood pressure: The client’s BP is 168/100 mmHg, which meets the criteria for severe preeclampsia (≥160/110 mmHg). Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of stroke, placental abruption, and progression to eclampsia.
Headache: The persistent headache could indicate severe preeclampsia with neurological involvement due to cerebral vasospasm and increased risk of stroke or seizure. A headache that does not resolve with usual measures is a warning sign, and magnesium sulfate should be considered for seizure prophylaxis.
Not a Priority Concern
Heartburn is a common symptom in pregnancy due to gastric reflux and increased progesterone levels, which relax the lower esophageal sphincter. While it can be uncomfortable, it is not immediately life-threatening.
Gestational age: The client is at 37 weeks’ gestation, which is considered early term but not preterm. While gestational age is important for delivery planning, it is not the most immediate concern compared to the client’s hypertensive crisis.
Cardiac assessment: The apical pulse is 77 bpm, regular, and lungs are clear, indicating that there is no immediate cardiac or respiratory compromise.
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.