After administration of epidural anesthesia, the nurse should immediately:
a. Assess pulse and respiration.
b. Assess blood pressure and fetal heart tones.
c. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula.
d. Place patient in semi-Fowler's position.
ANS: B
Epidural anesthesia commonly causes maternal hypotension, which can cause decreased placental circulation and inadequate fetal oxygenation. Therefore, it is important to check blood pressure and fetal heart tones immediately after administration of the anesthetic. Oxygen would not be necessary unless signs of hypotension and fetal distress are present. Placing the patient in a lateral position would ensure placental circulation and fetal oxygenation and would be the preferred position.
You might also like to view...
The nurse understands that the living will:
1. Provides specific instructions about what medical treatment the client chooses to omit or refuse. 2. Is the same as a healthcare proxy. 3. Provides for a designated person to see that the client's wishes are honored when the client no longer can speak for him. 4. Requires a physician's order.
The patient has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. What laboratory result would the nurse least expect to be elevated?
A) Total thyroxine (T4) B) Free triiodothyronine (T3) C) Free thyroxine (T4) D) Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
A woman who is 14 weeks pregnant calls the clinic nurse to report that after a brief bleeding episode a week ago, her uterus seems to have gotten smaller, but her periods have not begun. The nurse assesses the indicators for a _____________ abortion
ANS:
A nurse is caring for a male client who has been recommended the guided imagery technique for pain management. The client is eager to know how this technique will help him. In which way does the guided imagery technique help in pain management?
A) Relieves pain by relaxing taut muscles B) Provides distraction and diversion from the pain C) Enables visualization of destruction of the origin of pain D) Causes vasodilation at the area of pain