The laboring patient brought a written birth plan indicating that she wanted to avoid pain medications and an epidural. She is now at 6 cm and states, "I can't stand this anymore! I need something for pain! How will an epidural affect my baby?" The best response by the nurse is:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Research has shown that epidurals are unlikely to decrease the baby's heart rate. The nurse should provide accurate information to the patient to alleviate any concerns she may have about the potential effects of pain medication on her baby. However, the final decision on pain management should be made by the patient, and the nurse should support her in whichever decision she makes.

The Laboring Patient Brought a Written Birth Plan Indicating That