A client is receiving an epidural anesthesia during labor. Which observation is the most important adverse effect that the practical nurse (PN) should assess for following the administration of the epidural?
Maternal hypotension.
A vaginal hematoma.
A continuous headache.
Urinary retention.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Maternal hypotension is a significant adverse effect of epidural anesthesia that can lead to decreased uterine blood flow and fetal distress. Monitoring for hypotension is critical to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being.
B. While a vaginal hematoma is a potential complication, it is less immediately associated with the administration of epidural anesthesia compared to hypotension.
C. A continuous headache could indicate post-dural puncture but is less common and not the primary immediate concern compared to hypotension following an epidural.
D. Urinary retention can occur with epidural anesthesia, but maternal hypotension is a more urgent and significant immediate concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Move away from the overbed table: This action can be done after the gloves are completely removed and disposed of. Moving away too early increases the risk of bumping into something and contaminating the gloves.
B. Sterile gloves are contaminated on the outside after performing a procedure like a dressing change. Pulling the glove down and everting it (turning it inside out) confines the contamination to the inside of the glove, reducing the risk of transferring germs to the hands or surrounding surfaces. This maintains a sterile field and minimizes the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
C. Loosen the glove from the fingers: This might be the initial step while grasping the glove for removal, but the key is to maintain aseptic technique by keeping the outside of the glove contained throughout removal.
D. Raise the hands above waist level: Raising hands above the waist level increases the risk of contaminating the sterile field or nearby surfaces if the glove integrity is compromised.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Gloves
Gloves are essential when entering the room because MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a pathogen that can be transmitted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or secretions. Gloves protect both the client and the PN from the spread of the infection and should be worn when touching the patient or surfaces/items in the room.
B. N95 Mask
An N95 mask is not required for MRSA infections unless there are concerns about airborne transmission, which is not typical for MRSA. MRSA transmission is primarily through direct or indirect contact rather than airborne routes, so an N95 mask is not necessary in this scenario.
C. Gown
A gown is required when there is a risk of contamination from the environment or the patient, especially with MRSA infections. It helps to protect the PN’s clothing and skin from coming into contact with any infectious materials from the surgical site.
D. Surgical Mask
A surgical mask is appropriate for MRSA to protect against droplets and to prevent the spread of infection. It is particularly useful if there is a risk of droplets from the patient or if the PN is performing procedures that might generate droplets.
E. Goggles
Goggles are not required for MRSA unless there is a specific risk of splash or spray that could potentially expose the PN’s eyes to infectious materials. In the context of a surgical site infection, goggles are not a standard part of the PPE unless additional procedures are being performed that involve splashes
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