A nurse is preparing to administer epidural anesthesia to a client in labor.
What is the minimum cervical dilation required before inserting the catheter into the epidural space?
2 cm
4 cm
6 cm
8 cm
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale: A cervical dilation of 2 cm is not sufficient for the insertion of an epidural catheter. The cervix needs to be dilated more to ensure that the catheter can be inserted without causing injury or discomfort to the patient. Furthermore, administering epidural anesthesia too early in labor can potentially slow down the labor process.
Choice B rationale: A cervical dilation of 4 cm is generally considered the minimum dilation required before inserting the catheter into the epidural space. At this stage, the labor is established and the risk of slowing down the labor process is minimal. The epidural space can be accessed safely and the catheter can be inserted without causing injury or discomfort to the patient.
Choice C rationale: While a cervical dilation of 6 cm is more than sufficient for the insertion of an epidural catheter, it is not necessary to wait until the cervix is dilated to this extent before administering epidural anesthesia. Waiting until the cervix is dilated to 6 cm could result in unnecessary pain and discomfort for the patient.
Choice D rationale: A cervical dilation of 8 cm is well into the active phase of labor and is often considered too late for the administration of epidural anesthesia. At this stage, the labor is progressing rapidly and there may not be enough time to administer the anesthesia and achieve adequate pain relief before the baby is born.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The paracervical area at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions.This is because a paracervical block is an anesthetic procedure in which a local anesthetic is injected into between two and six sites at a depth of 3–7 mm alongside the vaginal portion of the cervix in the vaginal fornices.The injection sites are usually at 10 o’clock, 8 o’clock, 2 and 4 o’clock positions, but for labor pain relief, the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions are preferred.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Administer the medication immediately after a contraction.This is because fentanyl can cross the placenta and cause respiratory depression in the fetus, so it should be given when the placental blood flow is lowest, which is right after a contraction.
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