A nurse is attending to a client who is receiving opioid epidural analgesia during labor. Which of the following observations should the nurse prioritize?
The client reports profuse itching.
Temperature 38.2°C (100.8°F).
Blood pressure 80/56 mm Hg.
The client reports weakness of the lower extremities.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While itching can be a side effect of opioid analgesics, it is not the priority observation. Itching can be uncomfortable for the client, but it is not life-threatening.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38.2°C (100.8°F) indicates a low-grade fever. While this should be monitored, it is not the priority observation in this situation.
Choice C rationale
The priority observation is the client’s blood pressure. Opioid epidural analgesia can cause hypotension, which can lead to inadequate perfusion to the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Weakness of the lower extremities can be a side effect of epidural analgesia, but it is not the priority observation. The nurse should monitor for this, but it is not as critical as monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The largest fetal diameter passing through the pelvic outlet is not what is indicated by the presenting part being at 0 station. This would be more indicative of a positive station, such as
+31.
Choice B rationale
The position of the fetal head, such as left occiput posterior, is not determined by the station of the presenting part. The station refers to the level of the presenting part in relation to the mother’s ischial spines.
Choice C rationale
The palpability of the posterior fontanel is not related to the station of the presenting part. The fontanels are soft spots on the baby’s head which allow for compression during birth and brain growth after birth.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct interpretation of the clinical finding. The presenting part is at 0 station when its lowermost portion is at the level of an imaginary line drawn between the client’s ischial spines.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Painless vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks of gestation can be a sign of placenta previa or placental abruption, both of which are serious conditions that require immediate attention.
Choice B rationale
While vaginal spotting after a missed period could indicate early pregnancy, it is not as immediately concerning as painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester.
Choice C rationale
Nausea and vomiting at 14 weeks of gestation are common symptoms of early pregnancy and, while uncomfortable, are not usually a medical emergency.
Choice D rationale
A cough and fever at 38 weeks of gestation could indicate an infection, which should be evaluated. However, it is not as immediately concerning as painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester.
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