Final answer:
The nurse preparing a client for epidural anesthesia should perform a 'time out' to confirm patient details, prep for the procedure, and focus on patient support and monitoring vitals before and after administering the anesthesia.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a client in active labor who is scheduled to receive epidural anesthesia should ensure the team, including the nurse and anesthesia professional, conduct a 'time out'. During this 'time out', they should confirm the correct patient identity, surgical site (if applicable), and review any potential concerns for patient care and recovery aloud. Before anesthesia induction, the team should reassure that all necessary preparations are complete and all appropriate safety checks are observed. Specifically, for an epidural, the nurse should monitor the patient's vitals, offer support and comfort, ensure the patient is properly positioned for the procedure, manage the IV infusion, and prepare for any immediate post-anesthetic care that may be needed.