Needs of Maternal and Reproductive Health Clients Related

Review Needs of Maternal and Reproductive Health Clients related questions and content

A client receiving epidural anesthesia begins to experience nausea and becomes pale and clammy. What intervention should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Raise the foot of the bed
  • B. Assess for vaginal bleeding
  • C. Evaluate the fetal heart rate
  • D. Take the client's blood pressure
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: These symptoms are suggestive of hypotension which is a side effect of epidural anesthesia. Raising the foot of the bed (A) will increase venous return and provide blood to the vital areas. Increasing the IV fluid rate using a balanced non-dextrose solution and ensuring that the silent is in a lateral position are also appropriate interventions.