Question

A patient is receiving epidural analgesics. What should the nurse monitor closely in this patient?

1) Temperature elevation to 99.2 F from 98 F
2) Increase in pulse rate from 88 to 99
3) Decrease in respirations from 16 to 14
4) Decrease in blood pressure from 120/80 to 110/68

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor closely the patient's decrease in blood pressure from 120/80 to 110/68 when receiving epidural analgesics. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial to ensure proper tissue perfusion and oxygenation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should monitor closely the patient's decrease in blood pressure from 120/80 to 110/68 when receiving epidural analgesics. Normally, the mean arterial pressure (MAP) falls within the range of 70-110 mm Hg. If the value falls below 60 mm Hg for an extended time, blood pressure will not be high enough to ensure circulation to and through the tissues, resulting in insufficient blood flow or ischemia. Monitoring the patient's blood pressure is crucial to ensure proper tissue perfusion and oxygenation.