Figure 4-8. Caudal block.
(d) The patient should be informed about the pressure she may feel.
She may have a "crazy bone" feeling in her legs, hip, or back at the time the catheter is
inserted if it touches a nerve.
(e) Both the caudal and the lumbal epidural require frequent
observation and a physician's administration, which limits their use.
4-9.
GENERAL ANESTHESIA
a. General anesthesia produces loss of sensation and loss of consciousness. It
is seldom indicated for uncomplicated vaginal delivery. It is used in cases of fetal
distress requiring immediate delivery and used for C-section when spinal anesthesia is
contraindicated.
b. The disadvantages are as follows:
(1)
The patient is unable to participate.
(2) It rapidly crosses the placenta causing fetal anesthesia, respiratory
depression, and possible anoxia (loss of oxygen).
(3) There is increased risk of maternal aspiration -- evaluate how recently
the patient has eaten.
(4)
There is possible hemorrhage since nitrous oxide yields uterine
relaxation.
MD0922
4-12