Promoting Client Comfort During Labor and Delivery Related

Review Promoting Client Comfort During Labor and Delivery related questions and content

A labor patient, gravida 2, para 1, at term has received meperidine (Demerol) for pain control during labor. Her most recent dose was 15 minutes ago and birth is now imminent. Maternal vital signs have been stable and the EFM tracing has not shown any baseline changes. Which medication does the nurse anticipate would be required in the birth room for administration?

  • A. Oxytocin (Pitocin)
  • B. Naloxone (Narcan)
  • C. Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
  • D. Oxygen
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A: Oxytocin (Pitocin). Oxytocin is commonly given during the third stage of labor to help with uterine contractions and prevent postpartum hemorrhage. Meperidine can cross the placenta and cause respiratory depression in the newborn. Therefore, the nurse should anticipate needing oxytocin to assist with contractions after birth to minimize bleeding.

Summary of other choices:
B: Naloxone (Narcan) - This is an opioid antagonist used to reverse the effects of opioids like meperidine. However, it is not typically needed if the newborn does not show signs of respiratory depression.
C: Bromocriptine (Parlodel) - This medication is not commonly used during labor and birth and is not indicated in this scenario.
D: Oxygen - While oxygen may be needed for the mother or newborn in certain situations, it is not directly related to the administration of meperidine or