A laboring person is requesting an epidural for pain relief. What is the most important nursing action before the procedure?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: check for any contraindications. Before administering an epidural, it is crucial to assess for contraindications such as low platelet count, infection at the insertion site, or severe hypotension as these may increase the risk of complications. Administering an epidural bolus (A) without checking for contraindications can be dangerous. Performing a vaginal exam (C) is not necessary before an epidural and could increase the risk of infection. Ensuring continuous fetal monitoring (D) is important during labor but is not the most critical action before administering an epidural.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: offer antibiotics as needed. In postpartum individuals at high risk for infection, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent or treat infections. Antibiotics target specific pathogens, reducing the risk of infection. Proper hand hygiene (B) and infection control practices (D) are important but do not directly address the underlying risk of infection. Providing perineal care and hygiene (A) is essential for overall hygiene but may not be sufficient in preventing infections in high-risk individuals. Antibiotics, when prescribed judiciously and appropriately, can be crucial in reducing the risk of infection and promoting recovery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: support skin-to-skin contact. Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth helps regulate the baby's body temperature, promotes bonding, and enhances breastfeeding success by stimulating the baby's natural instincts to latch on and feed. This action establishes a strong foundation for successful breastfeeding. Rationale: 1. Skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding and attachment between the parent and baby, creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding. 2. It helps regulate the baby's body temperature, ensuring they are comfortable and more willing to breastfeed effectively. 3. Skin-to-skin contact triggers the baby's natural feeding reflexes, making it easier for them to latch on properly. 4. This action fosters a positive breastfeeding experience for both the parent and baby, setting the stage for successful breastfeeding. Summary: - Choice A: educating on proper latch is important, but skin-to-skin contact is more crucial for establishing successful breastfeeding. - Choice C: promoting frequent feeding is beneficial, but skin-to

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: administer preoperative medication. Before a cesarean birth, it is crucial to administer preoperative medication to ensure the person's comfort and safety during the procedure. This medication can include pain relief and sedatives to manage anxiety. Administering antibiotics (choice B) is important to prevent infection, but it typically occurs after preoperative medication. Assisting with perineal care (choice C) and applying pressure to the abdomen (choice D) are not necessary steps before a cesarean birth.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: administer an analgesic. This is the priority intervention because pain management helps the person relax, which reduces stress on the uterus and promotes effective contraction to prevent uterine atony. Administering uterotonic medication (choice A) may help contract the uterus but addressing pain first is crucial. Performing uterine massage (choice C) can assist in contracting the uterus but is not the priority intervention. Administering IV fluids (choice D) is important for hydration but does not directly address preventing uterine atony.