Obstetric Nurse Test Obstetric Nurse Pain Management in Labor 2

Question 1

Combined spinal-epidural (CSE) analgesia in labor is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Rapid initial pain relief while preserving the ability to ambulate

Answer

CSE provides fast-acting spinal analgesia via a smaller intrathecal opioid dose while preserving motor function, allowing ambulatory labor ("walking epidural").

Question 2

Effleurage as a labor comfort measure is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Light rhythmic stroking of the abdomen during contractions

Answer

Effleurage is a light, circular stroking massage over the abdomen performed during contractions that stimulates large sensory fibers and may inhibit pain signal transmission via gate control theory.

Question 3

When monitoring a patient using hydrotherapy (water immersion) for labor pain relief, the nurse's priority assessment is:

Accepted Answer

Monitoring water temperature to prevent maternal and fetal hyperthermia

Answer

Water temperature above 37.5°C can cause maternal hyperthermia, which leads to fetal tachycardia and increases metabolic demand; maintaining water at or below body temperature is essential.

Question 4

Which local anesthetic agent is most commonly used in continuous epidural infusions for labor analgesia?

Accepted Answer

Low-concentration bupivacaine or ropivacaine

Answer

Dilute bupivacaine (0.0625–0.125%) or ropivacaine, often combined with fentanyl, provides effective sensory blockade with minimal motor block, allowing ambulation during labor.

Question 5

A patient with an epidural reports a "hot spot" — an area of persistent pain despite the epidural running. The nurse's first action is:

Accepted Answer

Reposition the patient and notify the anesthesia provider

Answer

Repositioning may redistribute epidural solution to cover the unblocked area; the anesthesia provider should then be notified to assess catheter placement and adjust the regimen.

Obstetric Nurse Test Practice Test

Obstetric Nurse Test Practice Test

Obstetric Nurse Test Obstetric Nurse Pain Management in Labor 2