What is the disadvantage of local anesthesia?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Local anesthesia is used to numb a specific part of the body for medical procedures. The main disadvantage of local anesthesia is pain during the injection process. This is because the injection itself can be uncomfortable or even painful for some individuals. However, this pain is temporary and typically subsides quickly once the area is numb. Choice A, decreased motor function, is not a disadvantage of local anesthesia. Local anesthesia specifically targets sensory nerves, not motor nerves, so it does not affect muscle function or movement. Choice B, nausea, is also not a common side effect of local anesthesia. Nausea is more commonly associated with general anesthesia, which affects the entire body and can lead to a variety of side effects, including nausea and vomiting. Choice C, hypotension (low blood pressure), is not typically a disadvantage of local anesthesia either. Local anesthesia is localized to a specific area and does not have a significant impact on blood pressure. Hypotension is more commonly associated with general anesthesia, which can affect the cardiovascular system more broadly. In conclusion, the main disadvantage of local anesthesia is the potential for pain during the injection process. This discomfort is temporary and localized to the injection site, making it a minor drawback compared to the benefits of pain relief during medical procedures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Fetal heart rate monitoring during the second stage of labor is primarily done to evaluate fetal well-being. This is because during the second stage, the baby is moving through the birth canal and experiencing increased stress, so monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial to ensure the baby is tolerating labor well. Choice A, predicting when to bear down during contractions, is incorrect because fetal heart rate monitoring is not used to determine the timing of pushing. This is typically guided by the healthcare provider based on the progress of labor and the position of the baby. Choice B, determining the strength of uterine contractions, is incorrect as this is typically assessed through palpation of the abdomen or by using a tocodynamometer to measure the frequency and duration of contractions. Fetal heart rate monitoring is specifically used to assess the baby's well-being. Choice D, monitoring vital signs of the birthing person, is incorrect because fetal heart rate monitoring is focused on the well-being of the baby, not the birthing person. The birthing person's vital signs are typically monitored separately during labor and delivery. In summary, the primary goal of fetal heart rate monitoring during the second stage of labor is to evaluate fetal well-being and ensure the baby is tolerating labor effectively. It is not used to predict pushing, assess uterine contractions, or monitor the vital signs of the birthing person.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary risk associated with a retained placenta is postpartum hemorrhage. When the placenta is not properly expelled after childbirth, it can lead to excessive bleeding. This is because the uterus may not contract effectively to close off blood vessels once the placenta is removed. Postpartum hemorrhage can be life-threatening if not promptly managed. Option A: Neonatal jaundice is not directly related to a retained placenta. Neonatal jaundice occurs when a baby's liver is not fully developed, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This is a separate issue from placental retention. Option C: Delayed bonding is not a primary risk associated with a retained placenta. While it can impact the emotional connection between the mother and baby, it is not a life-threatening complication like postpartum hemorrhage. Option D: Postpartum anemia can occur as a result of excessive bleeding from a retained placenta, but it is not the primary risk. Postpartum anemia is a condition where there is a low red blood cell count after childbirth, leading to fatigue and weakness. It is a consequence of postpartum hemorrhage rather than the main risk associated with a retained placenta.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Performing fundal massage to promote uterine firmness is the correct immediate action for a boggy uterus. A boggy uterus is a uterus that feels soft and relaxed instead of firm and contracted after childbirth, which can lead to excessive bleeding. Fundal massage helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which can help prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage. Choice A, documenting the findings as normal, is incorrect because simply documenting the findings does not address the issue of a boggy uterus and the potential for postpartum hemorrhage. Immediate action is needed to promote uterine firmness. Choice B, continuing to administer the uterotonic medication, may be necessary in some cases, but the immediate action for a boggy uterus is fundal massage. Uterotonic medications can help promote uterine contractions, but fundal massage is a more direct and immediate intervention. Choice D, administering an analgesic for the birthing person's pain, is not the priority when dealing with a boggy uterus. While pain management is important, addressing the boggy uterus and potential postpartum hemorrhage takes precedence to ensure the birthing person's safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the perineum after birth is primarily done to detect any signs of perineal trauma. This is because perineal trauma, such as tears or lacerations, is a common occurrence during childbirth and can lead to complications if not identified and treated promptly. By assessing the perineum, healthcare providers can determine the extent of any trauma and provide appropriate interventions to promote healing and prevent infection. Option A, to evaluate the birthing person's readiness for discharge, is incorrect because assessing the perineum is not solely about determining readiness for discharge. While the condition of the perineum may factor into discharge decisions, the primary purpose is to assess for trauma. Option B, to ensure the birthing person can ambulate safely, is also incorrect because assessing the perineum is not directly related to the birthing person's ability to walk safely. While perineal trauma may impact mobility, the main focus is on identifying and treating any trauma present. Option D, to assess the status of cervical dilation, is incorrect because cervical dilation is not related to assessing the perineum after birth. Cervical dilation is typically monitored during labor to track progress and guide interventions, but it is not relevant to assessing perineal trauma post-birth.