The nurse is caring for two postoperative patients who have had caesarean sections. One had surgery under spinal anesthesia and the other under epidural anesthesia
What are some important differences the nurse should be aware of when caring for these two patients? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct answers and no incorrect answers are selected. Select all that apply. 1. The level of pain relief is lower with spinals.
2. Placement of the needle is higher with epidurals.
3. Epidurals do not fully sedate motor nerves.
4. Spinal patients complain of nausea and vomiting.
5. Spinal anesthesia patients complain of headache if they sit up too soon.
3,5
Rationale 1: The level of pain relief is similar between the two types of anesthesia.
Rationale 2: The needle level is the same with both types of anesthesia.
Rationale 3: Motor nerves are more affected with spinals.
Rationale 4: Administration of both types of anesthesia is accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Rationale 5: It is recommended that patients lie flat for 6–8 hours after spinal anesthesia.
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