A nurse is caring for a client who has maternal hypotension following the placement of an epidural. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Position the client in a knee-chest position.
Administer a bolus infusion of lactated Ringer's.
Give terbutaline subcutaneously.
Apply oxygen via a nonrebreather face mask at 2 L/min.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B: Administer a bolus infusion of lactated Ringer’s.
Choice A rationale:
Positioning the client in a knee-chest position is not the standard intervention for maternal hypotension following epidural placement. This position is more commonly associated with cord prolapse or to relieve pressure on the vena cava.
Choice B rationale:
Administering a bolus infusion of lactated Ringer’s is the correct action. Hypotension during epidural analgesia is treated with additional intravenous boluses of crystalloid solution. This helps to increase the circulating blood volume and counteract the vasodilation caused by the epidural.
Choice C rationale:
Terbutaline is a medication used to relax the uterus and prevent premature labor, not for treating hypotension.
Choice D rationale:
Applying oxygen via a nonrebreather face mask at 2 L/min is not the primary treatment for maternal hypotension. Oxygen may be used as a supportive measure if there is evidence of fetal distress or maternal hypoxemia, but the first line of treatment for hypotension is fluid administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale: Bluish discoloration of the hands and feet (acrocyanosis) is common in newborns and usually resolves within the first few days of life. It is not typically a priority unless it persists or is accompanied by other signs of distress.
Choice B rationale: Overlapping of the cranial bones (craniosynostosis) requires monitoring but is not an immediate priority unless there are signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Choice C rationale: Forward and lateral positioning of the ears can be indicative of certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome. This finding is significant as it can signal the need for further evaluation and intervention to address any associated health concerns.
Choice D rationale: Small, distended white sebaceous glands on the face (milia) are common in newborns and resolve on their own without intervention.
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