A primigravida dilated to 5 cm has just received an epidural for pain.She complains of feeling lightheaded and dizzy within 10 minutes after the procedure.Her blood pressure before the procedure was 120/80 and is now 80/5 2.In addition to the bolus of fluids she has been given,which medication is preferred to use to increase her BP?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ephedrine is the preferred medication for increasing blood pressure in this situation because it is a vasoconstrictor that acts on both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors, leading to an increase in both cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. Epinephrine and terbutaline are not typically used in this situation because they can cause further decreases in blood pressure due to their beta-adrenergic effects. Epifoam is not a medication used for increasing blood pressure.

A Primigravida Dilated to 5 Cm Has Just Received an Epidural