ATI RN
Promoting Client Comfort During Labor and Delivery Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is a side effect of general anesthesia that usually limits its use to cases of emergency?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: newborn respiratory depression. General anesthesia can cross the placental barrier and affect the newborn's respiratory system, leading to potential complications such as respiratory depression. This side effect is a major concern, especially in non-emergency situations, as it can pose risks to the newborn's health. Hyperactive newborns (A), increase in uterine contractions (C), and decrease in cervical dilation (D) are not typical side effects of general anesthesia that limit its use in emergency cases. These options are unrelated to the primary concern of newborn respiratory depression in the context of administering general anesthesia during childbirth.
Question 2 of 5
Which fetal position may cause the laboring patient increased back discomfort?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Left occiput posterior. In this position, the baby's occiput is towards the mother's back, leading to increased back discomfort during labor. The baby's position can put pressure on the mother's sacrum and lower back, causing more pain. Choices A, C, and D do not involve the baby's occiput being posterior, so they would not result in the same level of back discomfort.
Question 3 of 5
The best time to teach nonpharmacologic pain control methods to an unprepared laboring patient is during which stage?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Latent phase. This stage is ideal for teaching nonpharmacologic pain control methods as the patient is usually more receptive, relaxed, and able to focus. During the latent phase, contractions are typically mild and irregular, allowing the patient to learn and practice techniques effectively. In contrast, the active phase (choice B) is characterized by increased intensity and frequency of contractions, making it challenging for the patient to concentrate on learning. The second stage (choice C) is the pushing stage, where the focus shifts to pushing efforts rather than learning new techniques. The transition phase (choice D) is the most intense stage of labor, making it difficult for the patient to absorb and apply nonpharmacologic pain control methods effectively.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is teaching a childbirth education class. Which information regarding excessive pain in labor should the nurse include in the session?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because excessive pain in labor can lead to increased maternal stress, which may result in decreased placental perfusion, compromising oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus. This can have serious implications for the baby's well-being. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because excessive pain in labor does not necessarily lead to a more rapid labor, has an effect on the labor outcome by potentially impacting placental perfusion, and is not considered a normal occurrence that should be disregarded.
Question 5 of 5
Which method of pain management would be safest for a gravida 3, para 2, admitted at 8 cm cervical dilation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epidural anesthesia. At 8 cm cervical dilation, the patient is in active labor and close to delivery. Epidural anesthesia is the safest method as it provides effective pain relief without affecting the baby's central nervous system. Narcotics can pass through the placenta and affect the baby's breathing. Spinal block may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Breathing and relaxation techniques may not be sufficient at 8 cm dilation. Epidural anesthesia is the most appropriate for pain management in this scenario.