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?

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

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Reposition the patient to a side lying position. This is the priority intervention because the tingling sensation in the fingers could be a sign of hyperventilation, which can lead to respiratory alkalosis. Repositioning the patient to a side lying position can help optimize oxygenation and reduce the risk of hyperventilation by promoting better breathing mechanics. Performing a vaginal exam (A) is not necessary at this time and could increase the patient's anxiety. Instructing the patient to breathe into her cupped hands (C) may not address the underlying issue of hyperventilation. Notifying the physician (D) is important but repositioning the patient should be done first to address the immediate physiological need.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient is dilated at 2 cm and 80% effaced, indicating early labor. This stage allows for the patient to be receptive to learning about nonpharmacologic pain control methods. The other choices are incorrect because they are in active labor or experiencing intense pressure, making it less ideal for teaching nonpharmacologic methods.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maternal temperature. The priority assessment before using jet hydrotherapy is to check the maternal temperature to ensure it is within normal limits. Elevated temperature can indicate infection, which could be exacerbated by hydrotherapy. Maternal pulse (A), blood pressure (C), and blood glucose level (D) are important assessments but are not the priority before using hydrotherapy. Pulse and blood pressure can be monitored during hydrotherapy, and blood glucose levels are typically not affected by hydrotherapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because administering a bolus of 500 to 1000 mL of D5 normal saline prior to catheter placement helps prevent hypotension, a common side effect of epidural anesthesia. This bolus helps maintain adequate fluid volume, which is crucial for hemodynamic stability during the procedure. Choice B is incorrect because having ephedrine available is not a necessary intervention for preparing a patient for epidural placement. Choice C is incorrect because while monitoring blood pressure is important during epidural administration, it should be done continuously rather than just for the first 15 minutes. Choice D is incorrect because inserting a Foley catheter is not a routine intervention for epidural catheter placement and is not directly related to the procedure's success or safety.