A nurse is caring for a primigravida whose cervix is 2 cm dilated, 75% effaced, and the fetal presenting part is at +2 station.
The patient says to the nurse, “I want an epidural now.Why won’t someone give me an epidural?” Which response is most appropriate for the nurse to make?
“Your labor may slow down if you receive an epidural now.”.
“You need to be at least eight centimeters dilated prior to receiving an epidural.”.
“You will need to be catheterized prior to receiving an epidural.”.
“Your baby needs to be at zero station before you can have an epidural.”.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A. “Your labor may slow down if you receive an epidural now.” An epidural is a type of regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a specific area of the body.
It can be used to reduce pain during labor and delivery.
However, an epidural can also have some side effects, such as lowering blood pressure, causing fever, and slowing down labor progress.
Therefore, it is usually recommended to wait until the cervix is at least 4 to 5 cm dilated and the contractions are strong and regular before receiving an epidural.
Choice B is wrong because there is no fixed rule about how dilated the cervix needs to be before receiving an epidural.
Some women may receive an epidural earlier or later than others, depending on their pain level, medical history, and preferences.
Choice C is wrong because catheterization is not a prerequisite for receiving an epidural.
Catheterization is the insertion of a tube into the bladder to drain urine.
It may be done after receiving an epidural because the anesthesia can affect the ability to urinate.
However, it is not required before receiving an epidural.
Choice D is wrong because the station of the baby does not determine when a woman can have an epidural.
The station of the baby refers to how far the baby has descended into the pelvis.
It is measured in relation to the ischial spines, which are bony landmarks in the pelvis.
A positive station means that the baby is below the spines, while a negative station means that the baby is above the spines.
Zero station means that the baby is at the level of the spines.
The station of the baby does not affect the administration of an epidural, as long as there are no other complications or contraindications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Empty your bladder prior to the test.This is because a full bladder can interfere with the insertion of the needle and increase the risk of complications.Amniocentesis is a test that involves removing and testing a small sample of cells from amniotic fluid, the fluid that surrounds the baby in the womb.It is done to check for genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome or Patau’s syndrome.
Choice A is wrong because there is no need to remain flat in bed for six hours after the test.You can resume your normal activities after a few hours of rest.
Choice B is wrong because vaginal bleeding is not a normal outcome of amniocentesis.If you experience any bleeding, leaking of fluid, fever or severe pain after the test, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Choice D is wrong because there is no restriction on eating before the test.You can have your normal meals and drinks before amniocentesis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Insufficient relaxation of the uterus between contractions.This is also known astachysystoleorhyperstimulation, which can cause fetal distress and uterine rupture.Oxytocin is a hormone that stimulates uterine contractions, but it can also cause them to be too strong or too frequent if given in high doses or for too long.
Choice A is wrong because oxytocin does not decrease body temperature.
Choice B is wrong because oxytocin does not cause maternal cardiac arrhythmias.
Choice C is wrong because oxytocin does not cause urinary retention.
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