What action should be taken regarding a client receiving controlled epidural analgesia?

What action should be taken regarding a client receiving controlled epidural analgesia?

• A. Monitor vital signs every hour
• B. Cover the insertion site with a transparent dressing
• C. Change the infusion site regularly
• D. Adjust the dosage based on patient feedback

Answer: (B)

When managing a client receiving controlled epidural analgesia, covering the insertion site with a transparent dressing is instrumental for several reasons. This practice helps to maintain a sterile environment, protecting the site from contaminants that could lead to infection. A transparent dressing also allows for easy visual inspection of the insertion site for any signs of redness, swelling, or drainage that may indicate complications, facilitating prompt medical intervention if necessary. Monitoring vital signs, changing the infusion site, and adjusting dosages based on patient feedback are important components of overall patient care, but they specifically do not address the immediate prevention of infection or complications that can arise from the insertion site itself. Proper dressing helps safeguard against such risks and contributes to the overall safety and effectiveness of the epidural analgesia management plan.

When managing a client receiving controlled epidural analgesia, covering the insertion site with a transparent dressing is instrumental for several reasons. This practice helps to maintain a sterile environment, protecting the site from contaminants that could lead to infection. A transparent dressing also allows for easy visual inspection of the insertion site for any signs of redness, swelling, or drainage that may indicate complications, facilitating prompt medical intervention if necessary.

Monitoring vital signs, changing the infusion site, and adjusting dosages based on patient feedback are important components of overall patient care, but they specifically do not address the immediate prevention of infection or complications that can arise from the insertion site itself. Proper dressing helps safeguard against such risks and contributes to the overall safety and effectiveness of the epidural analgesia management plan.