A woman has requested an epidural block for her pain.She is 5 cm dilated and 100% effaced.The baby is in a vertex position and is engaged.The nurse increases the woman's IV fluid for a preprocedural bolus.Before the initiation of the epidural,the woman should be informed regarding the disadvantages of an epidural block.Which concerns should the nurse share with this client?
(Select all that apply).
A) Ability to move freely is limited.
B) Orthostatic hypotension and dizziness may occur.
C) Gastric emptying is not delayed.
D) Higher body temperature may occur.
E) Blood loss is not excessive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The woman's ability to move freely and to maintain control of her labor is limited,related to the use of numerous medical interventions (IV lines and electronic fetal monitoring [EFM]).Significant disadvantages of an epidural block include the occurrence of orthostatic hypotension,dizziness,sedation,and leg weakness.Women who receive an epidural block have a higher body temperature (38° C or higher),especially when labor lasts longer than 12 hours,and may result in an unnecessary neonatal workup for sepsis.An advantage of an epidural block is that blood loss is not excessive.Other advantages include the following: the woman remains alert and able to participate,good relaxation is achieved,airway reflexes remain intact,and only partial motor paralysis develops.

A Woman Has Requested an Epidural Block for Her Pain