A woman in labor has just received an epidural block.

The most important nursing intervention is to:

Monitor the maternal blood pressure for possible hypertension.

Monitor the maternal pulse for possible bradycardia.

Monitor the fetus for possible tachycardia.

Limit parenteral fluids.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale
Hypertension is not a common side effect of epidural blocks; instead, hypotension is more likely due to vasodilation. Monitoring for hypertension is not the most important intervention.
Choice B rationale
Bradycardia is a potential side effect of epidural blocks due to sympathetic blockade. Monitoring the maternal pulse for bradycardia ensures timely intervention if this side effect occurs.
Choice C rationale
Epidural blocks do not typically cause fetal tachycardia. Monitoring the fetus for tachycardia is not the primary nursing intervention following epidural administration.
Choice D rationale
Limiting parenteral fluids is not advised after an epidural block as fluids are essential to counteract potential hypotension. Fluid management is crucial to maintain maternal and fetal hemodynamics.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Contractions spaced 5 to 20 minutes apart can indicate early labor, but regular and intense contractions closer together suggest active labor. This does not indicate imminent hospital visit.
Choice B rationale
Regular contractions lasting about a minute and causing inability to talk through them are strong indicators of active labor, suggesting the need for hospital evaluation.
Choice C rationale
Seeing a pink discharge (bloody show) indicates the cervix is starting to dilate but does not necessarily mean active labor is present. It's not the most immediate sign to proceed to hospital.
Choice D rationale
Cramping for 4 hours can be a sign of early labor, but it lacks the regularity and intensity of active labor contractions. This does not suggest an immediate need for hospital visit.

A. Metal detectors at airport security checkpoints can harm the fetus if the woman passes through them a number of times. B. Women should avoid seat belts and shoulder restraints in the car because they press on the fetus. C. While working or traveling in a car or on a plane, women should arrange to walk around at least every hour or so. D. Women should sit for as long as possible and cross their legs at the knees from time to time for exercise.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Metal detectors at airport security checkpoints are considered safe and do not pose any risk of harm to the fetus.
Choice B rationale
Seat belts and shoulder restraints should always be used as they provide essential protection for both the mother and the fetus during travel.
Choice C rationale
Pregnant women are advised to walk around every hour during long periods of sitting to improve circulation and prevent blood clots, enhancing fetal health.
Choice D rationale
Prolonged sitting and crossing legs can impede circulation and increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, making it essential to avoid such practices.

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A woman in labor has just received an epidural block. The most important nursing intervention is to:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A woman at 40 weeks gestation calls the labor unit to see whether or not she should go to the hospital to be evaluated. Which of the following statements by the woman indicates that she is probably in labor and should proceed to the hospital?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A woman in labor has just received an epidural block.

The most important nursing intervention is to: