Question

The nurse provides care for a client in active labor and who is 6 cm dilated. The client is now ready for epidural anesthesia. Which position will the nurse assist the client?

a) Supine with legs elevated
b) Side-lying with knees flexed
c) Upright sitting position
d) Prone with a pillow under the abdomen

Answer 1

The correct position for epidural anesthesia administration in a laboring client who is 6 cm dilated is side-lying with knees flexed, as it facilitates the procedure while maintaining mother and baby's safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse will assist the client in active labor and who is 6 cm dilated into the side-lying position with knees flexed for epidural anesthesia administration. This position is preferred because it allows the back to be arched and the spine to be more accessible, making it easier to administer the epidural. Additionally, the side-lying position helps to maintain blood flow and prevent pressure on the inferior vena cava, which could reduce blood flow to the baby.

When comparing the side-lying position to other options, such as supine with legs elevated or prone with a pillow under the abdomen, the side-lying with knees flexed position provides safer and more effective conditions for epidural administration during labor. It is important to maintain uterine contractions and the progression of labor with comfort and safety for both mother and baby.

As part of labor management, Pitocin, a synthetic form of oxytocin, may be used to induce or augment labor if contractions are insufficient and not leading to cervical dilation as needed.