What is the most important assessment for the nurse to conduct following the administration of epidural anesthesia to a client who is at 40-weeks gestation?
Level of pain sensation.
Variability of fetal heart rate
Maternal blood pressure
Station of presenting part
The Correct Answer is C
Level of pain sensation:
This is important for assessing the effectiveness of the epidural anesthesia, but it's not the most critical assessment immediately after administration.
Variability of fetal heart rate:
Monitoring fetal heart rate is always important, but immediately following epidural administration, the maternal blood pressure is a more immediate concern.
Maternal blood pressure:
This is the most critical assessment after epidural administration. Epidurals can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, which may affect blood flow to the baby.
Station of presenting part:
The station of the presenting part (the position of the baby's head in relation to the ischial spines) is important for assessing progress in labor, but it's not the most crucial assessment immediately after epidural administration.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The diaphragm must be refitted after childbirth:
This statement is correct. After childbirth, especially vaginal delivery, there can be changes in the size and tone of the vagina. Therefore, it's important to be refitted for a diaphragm after giving birth.
The most effective form of contraception is a diaphragm:
This statement is not accurate. While the diaphragm is a reversible and user-controlled method, its effectiveness can vary. It requires correct and consistent use to be effective.
The diaphragm should be inserted 2 to 4 hours before intercourse:
This statement is partially correct. The diaphragm should be inserted no more than 2 hours before intercourse and should be left in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse.
Vaseline lubricant can be used when inserting the diaphragm:
This statement is incorrect. Oil-based lubricants, including Vaseline, can damage latex diaphragms. Water-based lubricants are recommended for use with diaphragms
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Placenta accreta: Placenta accreta is a condition where the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall. While this can be a concern, the client in this scenario has already given birth, so this may not be the highest priority at this moment.
B. Hard, painful uterine afterpains: Afterpains are common in the postpartum period, especially in women who have given birth to multiples. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally expected and not considered a severe complication.
C. Postpartum psychosis: Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental health condition that can occur after childbirth. It is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and severe mood disturbances. While it is a serious concern, it might not be the immediate priority in a client who has had a severe postpartum hemorrhage.
D. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): This is a life-threatening condition where there is widespread activation of clotting factors, leading to excessive blood clotting followed by bleeding. Given the history of severe postpartum hemorrhage, DIC is a significant concern, and prompt assessment and intervention are crucial.
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