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 was 120/80 before the procedure and is now 80/ 52. In addition to the bolus of fluids she has been given, which medication is preferred to increase her BP?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ephedrine is a medication commonly used to treat hypotension caused by epidural anesthesia. It works by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate, thus raising blood pressure. Epinephrine and terbutaline are not commonly used in this setting and may cause adverse effects such as tachycardia and arrhythmias. Epifoam is not a medication and is not relevant to this scenario.

A Primigravida Dilated to 5 Cm Has Just Received an Epidural