QUESTION: "A multigravida with a history of cesarean delivery due to fetal distress is admitted for a trial labor and possible vaginal birth. After several hours of active labor, the physician orders nalbuphine (Nubain). The nurse evaluates the drug as effective when the client states which of the following?"
CHOICES
( X ) a.) "I'll be able to get some sleep until after the delivery."
( O ) b.) "The contractions don't seem as painful as before."
( X ) c.) "I don't feel that burning sensation in my stomach anymore."
( X ) d.) "I don't feel the nausea like I did the last time."
RATIONALE: Nalbuphine (Nubain), a synthetic agonist-antagonist similar to butorphanol and pentazocine, is used for analgesia during labor. Thus, the statement about the contractions seeming less painful indicates that the drug is effective. The client should not experience numbness or anesthesia from this drug. Although the client may rest or fall asleep after administration, the drug is not a sedative. Cimetidine (Tagamet), not nalbuphine (Nubain), is given to counteract indigestion (heartburn). The drug is not given to counteract nausea. However, nausea and dry mouth are potential side effects of nalbuphine. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Evaluation CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Physiological integrity CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: Pharmacological and parenteral therapies
