A nurse is assessing a client in labor who has had epidural esthesia for pain relief. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a complication from the epidural block?
Hypotension
Respiratory depression
Tachycardia
Vomiting
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypotension: This is the correct answer. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common side effect of epidural anesthesia. The epidural can block sympathetic nerves, which can cause blood vessels to dilate and lead to a drop in blood pressure.
B. Respiratory depression: While respiratory depression can occur with certain types of anesthesia, it is not a common side effect of epidural anesthesia.
C. Tachycardia: Tachycardia, or rapid heart rate, is not a typical side effect of epidural anesthesia.
D. Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can occur with any type of anesthesia, but they are not specific to epidural anesthesia and are not the most common complication. Hypotension is a more common and significant complication that should be monitored for in a client who has had an epidural block.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “Your baby should wet 6 to 8 diapers per day”: This is the correct choice. One of the best indicators that a baby is getting enough breast milk is frequent wet diapers. This shows that the baby is well-hydrated, which is a good sign that they’re getting enough milk.
B. “Your baby should burp after each feeding”: While burping can help to relieve gas and prevent spit-up, it’s not a reliable indicator of whether a baby is getting enough milk.
C. “Your baby should sleep at least”: This statement is incomplete and does not provide a clear measure of whether a baby is getting enough milk.
D. “Your baby should have a wake cycle of 30 to 60 minutes after each feeding”: While it’s true that babies often have awake periods after feedings, this is not a reliable indicator of whether they’re getting enough milk. Some babies may sleep more or less than others after feedings. The most reliable indicators are weight gain and diaper output.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bowel sounds: While it’s important to monitor bowel sounds in general, it’s not the priority when administering magnesium sulfate. Magnesium sulfate doesn’t typically affect bowel sounds.
B. Temperature: Monitoring temperature is important, but it’s not the priority in this case. Magnesium sulfate doesn’t typically cause changes in body temperature.
C. Fetal heart rate (FHR): While it’s important to monitor FHR when a client is in labor, the priority when administering magnesium sulfate is monitoring the client’s respiratory rate. Magnesium sulfate can depress the central nervous system and slow the respiratory rate.
D. Respiratory rate: This is the correct choice. Magnesium sulfate can depress the central nervous system, which can lead to respiratory depression. Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor the client’s respiratory rate when administering this medication. If the respiratory rate falls below 12 breaths per minute, it could indicate magnesium toxicity, and the healthcare provider should be notified immediately.
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.