While the nurse is assisting a patient recovering from epidural anesthesia to ambulate, the patient becomes dizzy and has a blood pressure of 78/48 mmHg. What actions should the nurse take?
Select all that apply.
1. Notify the anesthesiologist.
2. Notify the pharmacy to obtain atropine.
3. Continuously monitor blood pressure.
4. Prepare to administer intravenous fluids.
5. Prepare to administer vasoactive medications.
Correct Answer: 1, 3, 4, 5
Hypotension is common with epidural. Blood pressure should be monitored and, if critical hypotension occurs, the anesthesia provider should be alerted and expected to increase intravenous fluids and administer vasoactive medications. Atropine is not indicated in the treatment of this adverse effect of epidural anesthesia.
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