Epidural anesthesia for obstetric patients.

The use of epidural anesthesia for the obstetric patient is increasing in many areas of the country. The maternity nurse needs to have a basic understanding of the technique used by the physician to initiate this type of anesthesia, and also has a responsibility to know the contraindications, possible complications, and disadvantages and advantages of epidural anesthesia. This information is presented below. Skilled nursing and medical management will reduce the potential risks of epidural anesthesia for both the mother and fetus.