After the anesthesiologist inserts the anesthetic agent into the patient's spinal column, the nurse assists the patient into a supine position with the neck flexed. What is the rationale for the nurse's action?
1. This position allows for better monitoring of the patient's blood pressure and pulse.
2. Positioning can help the anesthetic agent reach the appropriate level in the spinal column.
3. This position helps to ensure the patient's cardiac function will not be affected by the anesthesia.
4. The patient will be able to breathe more easily in this position.
2
Rationale 1: This position does not make it easier to monitor vital signs, nor are they more accurate in this position.
Rationale 2: Spinal anesthesia is the administration of a local anesthetic into the spinal column. Once the medication is introduced, having the patient assume a supine position with the neck flexed will ensure that the anesthesia will reach the appropriate level in the spinal column.
Rationale 3: This position does not have a positive effect on cardiac function.
Rationale 4: This position does not decrease the work of breathing.
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