2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
When a woman is receiving postpartum epidural morphine, the nurse should plan to observe for which of the following side effects to occur within the first 3 hours?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Postpartum epidural morphine can lead to various side effects, with itching being a common reaction due to histamine release. This side effect typically manifests within the first few hours of administration.
Nausea and vomiting (A) can occur but are more variable and may not be immediate. Urinary retention (C) is a potential side effect, yet it generally develops later as the anesthetic wears off. Somnolence (D) can occur, but it is usually less pronounced and may not present within the initial 3-hour window. Thus, itching is the most expected side effect to monitor closely during this early period.