The nurse assesses a patient immediately after she receives an epidural anesthetic to control labor pain and notes tachycardia,hypertension,and reports of dizziness and a metallic taste in her mouth.Which is the nurse's priority intervention?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tachycardia, hypertension, dizziness, and metallic taste in the mouth are signs of potential complications from the epidural anesthesia. The nurse's priority intervention is to notify the provider immediately to ensure prompt intervention and prevent further complications. Administering diphenhydramine, encouraging deep breathing and relaxation techniques, and administering an IV fluid bolus may be appropriate interventions depending on the provider's assessment and orders, but they are not the priority at this time.

The Nurse Assesses a Patient Immediately After She Receives an Epidural