A patient was transported to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) after a cesarean section. The PACU nurse was informed that the patient received epidural anesthesia for the procedure. What is the safest position for this patient?

Explanation

• Post-operative patients who have received epidural anesthesia must be positioned in semi-Fowler's position to prevent upward migration of the opioid in the spinal cord. This decreases the risk for respiratory depression associated with epidural anesthesia.
• The other options are inappropriate positions for these patients.

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!