Question

What is the priority adverse effect of Epidural Anesthesia?

1) Nausea and vomiting
2) Hypotension
3) Headache
4) Respiratory depression

Answer 1

The priority adverse effect of Epidural Anesthesia is hypotension, which is a significant drop in blood pressure and requires immediate attention to prevent serious complications. The correct option is 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority adverse effect of Epidural Anesthesia is hypotension. When epidural anesthesia is administered, it can lead to vasodilation which in turn can cause a drop in blood pressure. This reduction in blood pressure can be significant enough to be considered a priority adverse effect.

Unlike nausea and vomiting, headache, or respiratory depression, hypotension can have more immediate systemic consequences and requires prompt recognition and management to prevent more serious complications such as decreased blood flow to vital organs, including the brain. Hence, 2 is the correct option.