Which client requires the most caution when giving an enema during labor?

Prepare for the HESI Obstetrics (OB) Test with our comprehensive quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question is designed with helpful hints and detailed explanations to enhance your study experience. Get ready to excel in your exam!

The client who requires the most caution when giving an enema during labor is the 40-week primigravida at 6 cm dilation with a floating presenting part. In this scenario, the nurse must consider several important factors that make this case particularly sensitive.

Firstly, the term "floating presenting part" indicates that the fetus has not yet engaged in the pelvis, which can make the labor process unpredictable. In such cases, administering an enema can lead to complications such as the risk of increased uterine contractions or even precipitating labor if the fetus is not adequately positioned for a safe delivery.

Furthermore, at 6 cm dilation, the client is in active labor, and any intervention, such as an enema, must be considered carefully due to the potential effects on the contractions and the dynamics of labor. The use of an enema at this stage, especially with a floating presenting part, may not only be unnecessary but could also increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus.

In contrast, the other clients listed are in different stages of labor or have more stable situations that make the administration of an enema less risky. For instance, a client who is less dilated or already engaged in labor may not encounter the same

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy