Question

The nurse is caring for a client during the first 12 hours of receiving epidural analgesia and assesses the client every hour. Along with vital signs, which best describes the priority of the hourly assessment?

A. Temperature, pedal pulses, and assessment of cranial nerves
B. Respiratory status, oxygen saturation, pain, and sedation level
C. Heart rate, capillary refill, bowel sounds and pedal pulses
D. Gastrointestinal status, bowel movements, and urine output

Answer 1

The hourly assessment of a client on epidural analgesia should focus on respiratory status, oxygen saturation, pain, and sedation level to prevent potential complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority of the hourly assessment for a client receiving epidural analgesia during the first 12 hours includes monitoring the respiratory status, oxygen saturation, assessment of pain level, and sedation level. These assessments are crucial as they help in the early detection and prevention of potential complications such as respiratory depression, a known side effect of epidural analgesia. The health care team, including the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional, must work collaboratively to ensure the safety and comfort of the patient by conducting thorough and frequent evaluations.