A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has received an epidural. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Bradypnea. Slow respiratory rate is not a typical sign of fluid overload. In fact, fluid volume excess may lead to tachypnea or dyspnea as fluid accumulates in the lungs and impairs gas exchange.
B. Distended neck veins. Jugular vein distention is a classic sign of fluid volume overload. It reflects increased central venous pressure and is commonly seen in clients receiving excessive IV fluids or those with heart failure.
C. Weight loss. IV fluid therapy is intended to increase intravascular volume, and adverse effects are usually related to fluid retention, not loss. Weight gain, not weight loss, would indicate fluid overload.
D. Bradycardia. An increased, not decreased, heart rate (tachycardia) is typically seen with fluid volume excess or in response to fluid shifts. Bradycardia is not a common adverse effect of IV fluid therapy.

A. "A cesarean birth is the only way to prevent transmission." Cesarean delivery is considered if active lesions or prodromal symptoms are present at the time of labor. However, it is not automatically required for all clients with a history of herpes.
B. "If you notice genital tingling be sure to notify your provider." Genital tingling or burning can be a prodromal sign of an impending herpes outbreak. Early reporting allows for appropriate evaluation and potential antiviral treatment to reduce the risk of transmission to the newborn.
C. "Hydrotherapy during labor can help reduce transmission." Hydrotherapy has no effect on herpes virus transmission and is not used for this purpose. Preventing neonatal herpes depends on careful monitoring and antiviral management.
D. "The provider will perform weekly visual inspections for lesions." Routine weekly inspections are not standard unless symptoms suggest an outbreak. Clients are generally monitored and evaluated for lesions closer to labor or if symptoms arise.