Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client at 40 weeks of gestation with a new prescription for misoprostol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?"

A) Take the medication on an empty stomach to enhance its effectiveness.
B) Administer the medication vaginally at bedtime and remain lying down for at least 30 minutes.
C) Take the medication with a high-fat meal to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
D) Use the medication every 4 hours until contractions begin, even if you are not experiencing pain.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client to administer the misoprostol vaginally at bedtime and remain lying down for at least 30 minutes to aid in the induction of labor, and follow healthcare provider instructions for dosing frequency.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should instruct the client at 40 weeks of gestation with a new prescription for misoprostol to administer the medication vaginally at bedtime and remain lying down for at least 30 minutes. Misoprostol is a medication commonly used to induce labor, and ensuring the medication remains in place is vital to its effectiveness. This method helps the cervix to thin and dilate, which is an essential part of the first stage of labor. During labor, the cervix must dilate up to 10 cm to allow for the baby to be expelled during birth. It's crucial to follow the specific instructions given by the healthcare provider, as misuse can lead to complications.

It is important to note that misoprostol should be used as directed by a healthcare professional, and the frequency of its use should align with medical advice. Other options mentioned, such as taking the medication on an empty stomach or with a high-fat meal and using it every 4 hours, are not standard practices for the administration of misoprostol for labor induction and should be avoided unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.