An adolescent in labor requests an epidural; the cultural family says 'bite the bullet.' How should the nurse respond to ensure the patient's request is honored?

• A. Ask the client in a nonthreatening way if she wishes to have an epidural, and then speak with the physician.
• B. Politely refuse due to cultural beliefs.
• C. Tell the mother that the client cannot have anesthesia.
• D. Inform the physician and proceed without client consent.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is honoring the patient’s autonomy and ensuring informed consent for pain relief during labor. Even though the family’s cultural stance encourages enduring the pain, the person in labor should be asked directly about her own preference for analgesia.

Acting this way—gently asking the patient in a nonthreatening manner if she wants an epidural and then contacting the physician to discuss options—keeps the patient at the center of the decision. It validates her right to choose and ensures she receives appropriate information about benefits, risks, and alternatives, with medical oversight before any epidural is given.

Acknowledging and respecting the family’s views is important, but they should not override the patient’s stated wishes. Refusing the request or proceeding without the patient’s consent undermines her rights and can lead to unsafe care. Involving the physician after confirming the patient’s preference ensures proper consent and clinical appropriateness.