A patient has just been admitted for labor and delivery. She is having mild contractions every 15 minutes lasting 30 seconds. The patient wants to have a medication-free birth

Question

When discussing medication alternatives, the nurse should be sure the patient understands that:
1. In order to respect her wishes, no medication will be given.
2. Pain relief will allow a more enjoyable birth experience.
3. The use of medications allows the patient to rest and be less fatigued.
4. Maternal pain and stress can have a more adverse effect on the fetus than would a small amount of analgesia.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: It is important to respect the patient's wishes when possible. Once the effects are explained, it is still the patient's choice whether to receive medication.
Rationale 2: While pain relief can lead to a more enjoyable experience, it might be the view of the nurse but not the mother.
Rationale 3: While pain relief can allow the mother to be less fatigued, it might be the view of the nurse but not the mother.
Rationale 4: The decision not to medicate should be an informed one, and it is possible that the patient does not know about the effects pain and stress can have on the fetus. Once the effects are explained, it is still the patient's choice whether to receive medication.