Maternal Fetal Monitoring Related

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A patient with a history of asthma is about to receive an epidural block for pain management during labor. What should the nurse monitor for after the procedure?

  • A. Respiratory depression
  • B. Tachycardia
  • C. Elevated blood pressure
  • D. Hyperthermia
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Respiratory depression. After receiving an epidural block, the nurse should monitor for respiratory depression in a patient with a history of asthma due to the potential for decreased lung function. This is crucial as the medication from the block can affect respiratory drive, leading to compromised breathing. Tachycardia (choice B), elevated blood pressure (choice C), and hyperthermia (choice D) are not typically associated with epidural blocks and are not the primary concerns for a patient with asthma undergoing this procedure.