What drug is an anxiolytic that relieves apprehension and creates a feeling of calm?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hydroxyzine is the correct answer because it is an antihistamine that also has anxiolytic properties. It acts as a central nervous system depressant, which helps to reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm in individuals. Hydroxyzine works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically histamine receptors, which leads to its anxiolytic effects. Option B, fentanyl, is a potent opioid analgesic used for pain management, not anxiety relief. Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to decrease pain perception, but it does not have anxiolytic properties. Option C, codeine, is another opioid analgesic commonly used for pain relief. Like fentanyl, codeine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to alleviate pain, but it does not have the same anxiolytic effects as hydroxyzine. Option D, morphine, is also an opioid analgesic used for pain management. Morphine acts on the central nervous system to decrease pain sensation by binding to opioid receptors, similar to codeine and fentanyl. However, it does not possess anxiolytic properties like hydroxyzine. In conclusion, hydroxyzine is the correct answer as it is specifically designed to relieve anxiety and promote a sense of calm, unlike the other options which are opioids primarily used for pain relief.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: After epidural catheter insertion, the nurse's responsibility is to monitor vital signs every 5 to 15 minutes. This is the correct answer because monitoring vital signs is crucial to ensure the laboring person's safety and detect any potential complications related to the epidural anesthesia. Choice B, intermittent FHR monitoring, is incorrect because FHR monitoring is typically done continuously or periodically during labor to assess the baby's well-being, not specifically after epidural catheter insertion. Intermittent monitoring may still be necessary, but it is not the immediate responsibility after epidural insertion. Choice C, providing the laboring person a meal, is incorrect because it is generally not recommended to eat a heavy meal during labor, especially after epidural insertion. The laboring person may be restricted to clear liquids or ice chips to prevent aspiration in case emergency intervention is needed. Choice D, instructing the laboring person to get out of bed to use the restroom, is incorrect because after epidural insertion, the laboring person may have decreased sensation and mobility in their lower body. It is unsafe to ask them to get out of bed without assistance due to the risk of falls or injuries. In conclusion, monitoring vital signs every 5 to 15 minutes is the nurse's responsibility after epidural catheter insertion to ensure the laboring person's safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the early phase of labor, the primary goal of nursing care is to promote relaxation and provide comfort measures (Choice C). This is because during this stage, the cervix is dilating and effacing, and contractions are becoming more regular and intense. Providing comfort measures such as massage, positioning changes, breathing techniques, and relaxation techniques can help the laboring woman cope with the pain and discomfort of contractions, as well as reduce anxiety and stress. Administering pain medication (Choice A) may be necessary later in labor if the woman requests it or if labor becomes too intense, but it is not the primary goal in the early phase. Nurses should first focus on non-pharmacological comfort measures to help the woman cope with labor pain. Monitoring fetal heart rate continuously (Choice B) is important throughout labor to assess the well-being of the fetus, but it is not the primary goal in the early phase. Fetal heart rate monitoring should be ongoing, but it does not take precedence over providing comfort and support to the laboring woman. Preparing for imminent delivery (Choice D) is also important but is not the primary goal in the early phase of labor. While it is essential to be prepared for delivery at any time, the early phase is typically a longer period where the focus is on providing comfort and support to the woman as labor progresses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During the second stage of labor, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor the fetal heart rate regularly to ensure the well-being of the baby. Choice A, assessing every 5 minutes with contractions, may be too frequent and unnecessary in a low-risk person as it could interrupt the natural progression of labor. Choice C, assessing every 5-15 minutes, may be too variable and not provide a consistent monitoring schedule. Choice D, only assessing when the physician orders, is incorrect because continuous monitoring of the fetal heart rate is essential during labor, regardless of physician orders. This is to ensure any changes or signs of distress in the baby are promptly identified and addressed. The correct answer is B, to assess the fetal heart rate at least every 30 minutes during the second stage. This interval allows for regular monitoring without being overly intrusive, striking a balance between ensuring the baby's well-being and allowing the labor to progress naturally. It also aligns with best practice guidelines for fetal monitoring during labor in low-risk individuals.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: During the second stage of labor, birthing person position changes play a crucial role in facilitating fetal descent. Option A is correct because different positions can help optimize the pelvis shape, allowing gravity to assist in the downward movement of the baby. This can aid in the progression of labor and reduce the risk of prolonged pushing. Option B is incorrect because position changes are meant to enhance the birthing experience and help with labor progress, rather than causing stress for the support person. In fact, involving the support person in position changes can provide emotional support and strengthen the birthing team. Option C is incorrect because while uterine contractions play a significant role in fetal descent, the position of the birthing person can also influence the process. By changing positions, the birthing person can help the baby navigate through the birth canal more effectively. Option D is incorrect because maintaining a supine position (lying on the back) is not always the safest option during the second stage of labor. In fact, this position can compress blood vessels, potentially reducing blood flow to the uterus and baby. Encouraging movement and different positions can promote comfort, reduce the risk of complications, and improve labor outcomes. In conclusion, choosing different birthing positions during the second stage can positively impact fetal descent and labor progress, making option A the most accurate description of the importance of position changes during this stage.