A client in labor with their second child is requesting epidural anesthesia.
Consent forms have already been signed, and admission paperwork is complete.
Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention before epidural anesthesia is initiated?
Place the client in the fetal position on the table and keep them steady so that they won't move during the procedure.
Prepare a sterile field with the supplies and medications that will be needed.
Review the client's medical history and laboratory results and interview them to confirm all information is accurate and up to date.
Administer a fluid bolus through the IV line to reduce the risk of hypotension.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While positioning the client is a crucial step for the procedure, it is not the first priority. The client is positioned after the preliminary steps, such as administering the fluid bolus, are completed. The fetal position is used to open the intervertebral spaces, allowing for easier needle insertion. However, the first priority is to prevent a known and common complication.
Choice B rationale
Preparing a sterile field is a necessary step for any invasive procedure to prevent infection. The supplies are prepared while the client is getting ready for the procedure. However, the priority intervention is focused on the client's physiological safety and preventing a known and common complication, which takes precedence over setting up the sterile field.
Choice C rationale
Reviewing the client's medical history and lab results is part of the initial admission process and is necessary to ensure the client is a suitable candidate for the procedure. This is done before the decision is made to proceed with the epidural. However, the priority intervention immediately before the procedure is a physiological intervention to prevent a potential complication.
Choice D rationale
Epidural anesthesia can cause vasodilation and a rapid drop in blood pressure due to the blockade of sympathetic nerves. A fluid bolus, typically 500-1000 mL of an isotonic solution, is administered to increase intravascular volume and preload, which helps to counteract this potential hypotensive effect. Preventing maternal hypotension is a priority because it can lead to decreased placental perfusion and fetal distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Insomnia is a common symptom of postpartum depression, often characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, or waking up early. This sleep disturbance, when coupled with other symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and fatigue, is a key diagnostic criterion for the condition.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent crying in the first week postpartum, now resolved, is a common symptom of the "baby blues.”. The baby blues are a transient condition, typically resolving within the first two weeks. Postpartum depression, in contrast, involves more severe and persistent symptoms lasting longer than two weeks.
Choice C rationale
Delusions are a symptom of postpartum psychosis, a rare and severe mental health condition that is distinct from postpartum depression. Postpartum psychosis involves a break from reality and is a psychiatric emergency. Delusions are not characteristic of postpartum depression.
Choice D rationale
Induced vomiting is a symptom associated with eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa. While eating disorders can coexist with postpartum depression, induced vomiting is not a defining symptom of postpartum depression itself. It is a separate clinical finding.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Steroids have immunosuppressive properties and can exacerbate bacterial infections by hindering the body’s ability to fight off the pathogens. Therefore, steroid creams are contraindicated and would not effectively treat the sores, as they would likely worsen the condition and delay healing.
Choice B rationale
The statement indicates an understanding of the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics to eradicate all of the bacteria. Discontinuing the medication prematurely can lead to antibiotic resistance and a recurrence of the infection, as some of the bacteria may survive and proliferate. Finishing the entire prescription ensures complete elimination of the pathogens.
Choice C rationale
Impetigo sores should not be covered with a tight dressing, as this can trap moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth and proliferation. While the sores should be kept clean and dry, covering them daily with an occlusive dressing is generally not recommended. This can worsen the infection and hinder the drying and healing process.
Choice D rationale
Impetigo is highly contagious, but it is primarily spread through direct contact with the sores. While thumb sucking could potentially transfer bacteria from the hands to the face, it is not the primary route of transmission or a specific treatment concern. The focus should be on proper hand hygiene and avoiding scratching or picking at the lesions, which is the main way the infection spreads.
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