A woman in labor has had an epidural block for pain relief. The ...

[theo]

A woman in labor has had an epidural block for pain relief. The nurse will be assessing carefully for what associated side effect of this type of regional anesthesia?
 
  a. Reduced fetal heart rate
  b. Long, intense contractions
  c. Sudden leg cramps
  d. Bladder distention

Question 2

The nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a woman receiving a subarachnoid block before delivery. What nursing action will be included in this plan to prevent the associated side effect of this type of anesthesia?
 
  a. Restrict oral fluids.
  b. Keep legs flexed.
  c. Walk with assistance as soon as possible.
  d. Lie flat for several hours.

[jasonq]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
A side effect of an epidural block is urine retention because the anesthesia interferes with the woman's ability to have an urge to void. The patient may have to be catheterized.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The woman would be advised to remain flat for several hours after the block to decrease the chance of postspinal headache.