A nurse is caring for a client following a vacuum-assisted birth. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications related to vacuum-assisted birth?

• A. Incorrect. Withholding pain medications for 24 hr after the old patch is removed is a harmful action that could cause severe withdrawal symptoms and uncontrolled pain for the client. The nurse should respect the client's right to refuse treatment and explore the reasons for their decision.
• B. Correct. Asking another nurse to witness the disposal of the new patch is a safe and legal action that follows the policies and procedures for handling controlled substances. The nurse should document the disposal of the new patch and report it to the appropriate authority.
• C. Incorrect. Sealing the patches in a plastic bag and placing them in the client's trash basket is an unsafe and illegal action that could lead to diversion, misuse, or accidental exposure of fentanyl to others. The nurse should dispose of the patches in a secure and designated container that prevents access by unauthorized persons.
• D. Incorrect. Sticking the two patches to each other and placing them in the sharps bin is an unsafe and improper action that could cause contamination, injury, or infection to others who handle or dispose of sharps waste. The nurse should dispose of the patches separately and carefully, avoiding contact with their adhesive surfaces.

A. Hypoxemia is a condition of low oxygen levels in the blood. PEEP can actually improve oxygenation by preventing alveolar collapse and increasing functional residual capacity.

B. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition of air accumulation in the pleural space that causes increased intrathoracic pressure and compresses the lungs, heart, and great vessels. PEEP can increase the risk of tension pneumothorax by creating excessive positive pressure in the airways and alveoli.

C. Malignant hypertension is a severe form of high blood pressure that can cause organ damage and stroke. PEEP can cause a transient increase in blood pressure due to increased intrathoracic pressure, but it does not cause malignant hypertension.

D. Atelectasis is a condition of partial or complete lung collapse due to alveolar collapse or obstruction. PEEP can prevent or treat atelectasis by maintaining positive pressure in the airways and alveoli.