A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the postpartum unit. The client is diaphoretic, skin is clammy, pulse is rapid and strong, respirations are shallow. The client reports headache, nausea, and feeling weak.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer oxygen.
Offer an ice pack.
Provide a warm blanket.
Elevate the client’s legs.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen may help with symptoms like headache and weakness, but it does not address the underlying issue of poor circulation and potential shock. Elevating the legs is more effective in improving blood flow to vital organs.
Choice B rationale
Offering an ice pack is not appropriate for the symptoms described. The client is showing signs of shock, and an ice pack would not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale
Providing a warm blanket may offer comfort, but it does not address the symptoms of shock. Elevating the legs is a more direct intervention to improve circulation and stabilize the client.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the client’s legs helps improve venous return to the heart, increasing cardiac output and stabilizing blood pressure. This is a critical intervention for a client showing signs of shock.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypertension is not a common adverse effect of epidural anesthesia. In fact, epidurals can cause hypotension due to the blockade of sympathetic nerves.
Choice B rationale
Tachypnea is not typically associated with epidural anesthesia. Common side effects include low blood pressure and headache.
Choice C rationale
Tachycardia is not a common adverse effect of epidural anesthesia. More common side effects include low blood pressure and urinary retention.
Choice D rationale
Fever is a known adverse effect of epidural anesthesia. It can occur due to the body’s response to the epidural procedure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tingling in the fingers, also known as carpal tunnel syndrome, is more commonly associated with the later stages of pregnancy when fluid retention is more pronounced. It is not typically a common discomfort during the first trimester.
Choice B rationale
Round ligament pain is more common in the second trimester when the uterus is growing rapidly and the ligaments supporting it stretch. This type of pain usually manifests as sharp, shooting pain in the lower abdomen or groin.
Choice C rationale
Perineal discomfort and pressure are more common in the later stages of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as the baby descends into the pelvis and prepares for birth. It is not typically a discomfort experienced during the first trimester.
Choice D rationale
Increased urgency and frequency of urination are common discomforts during the first trimester of pregnancy. This occurs due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder, which reduces its capacity.