EDAPT PAIN AND LABOR
Labor and childbirth can be painful processes. Many medical, pharmaceutical, and non-pharmaceutical
interventions can increase
... [Show More] comfort, reduce pain, and decrease possible fear or anxiety during labor and
childbirth.
Which statements describe the actions of analgesics given in labor? Select all that apply.
Analgesics cross the placenta barrier and affect the fetus. They can cause depressed respiratory efforts at
delivery. Therefore, it is important to administer them cautiously and at the right time before delivery. Nursing
assessment will focus on respiratory depression, drowsiness, and vital signs.
Analgesics are not given to slow labor and they are not routinely contraindicated in labor.
Which statement is accurate regarding the pain associated with childbirth?
Labor pain is unique to the individual and influenced by many factors. Pain can be expressed in many ways,
and not everyone finds the same things comforting in coping with pain. Labor pain is not predictable or easily
treated because of its unique nature. For some, pregnancy is not a happy time and having a child is not
something they look forward to with joy. Also, family members may or may not help comfort the client with
pain.
For some, knowing the facts that labor pain will end and a general idea of how and when it will end provides
comfort, helps them stay calm, and makes coping with pain easier.
A client with substance use disorder is admitted in active labor. She admits to using heroin. Which of the
following medications should the nurse know is contraindicated for this client?
Nalbuphine is contraindicated for clients who are opiate-dependent because it may precipitate withdrawal.
Promethazine may be given to relieve nausea and vomiting in labor. Diphenhydramine may be used to help
with itching due to an epidural. Ibuprofen is given in the postpartum period to relieve uterine cramping.
All pain is subjective, difficult to define and quantify, and very personal. The pain associated with childbirth is
unique for many reasons.
There are five components of labor that each impact the other throughout the labor and childbirth
process: powers, passage, passenger, position, and psyche (5 Ps). [Show Less]