After administering epidural anesthesia during labor, which adverse effect must the PN monitor for?

Monitoring for maternal hypotension after administering epidural anesthesia is critical due to the potential effects of the anesthesia on the body's cardiovascular system. Epidural anesthesia works by blocking nerve signals from the lower body to the brain, which can lead to dilation of blood vessels and a subsequent drop in blood pressure. This drop in blood pressure can compromise uteroplacental blood flow, potentially affecting both the mother and the fetus.

Recognizing and promptly addressing maternal hypotension is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of both the laboring person and the unborn child. Symptoms of hypotension may include dizziness, lightheadedness, and increased heart rate, which the nurse must be vigilant in monitoring for and managing.

While maternal hypertension, severe headaches, and difficulty in fetal heart rate monitoring can be concerns during labor, hypotension is the most immediate and critical adverse effect that requires monitoring following the administration of epidural anesthesia.