A nurse in a college health clinic is speaking to a group of adolescents about toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching as increasing the risk for contracting TSS?

The correct answer is choice a. Excessive uterine enlargement.

Choice A rationale:

Hydatidiform mole, also known as a molar pregnancy, often presents with excessive uterine enlargement. This is due to the abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue, which can cause the uterus to be larger than expected for gestational age.

Choice B rationale:

An irregular fetal heart rate is not typically associated with a hydatidiform mole because there is usually no viable fetus present in this condition.

Choice C rationale:

A rapid decline in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels is not expected. Instead, hCG levels are usually abnormally high due to the trophoblastic tissue proliferation.

Choice D rationale:

Profuse, clear vaginal discharge is not a characteristic finding of a hydatidiform mole. Instead, vaginal bleeding or discharge that may be brownish and resemble prune juice is more common.

Choice A rationale

Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta partly or completely separates from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. This can decrease or block the baby’s supply of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother. Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) is a known risk factor for placental abruption.

Choice B rationale

While blunt force trauma can be a cause of placental abruption, it is not the most common risk factor. Trauma or injury to the abdomen can cause placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice C rationale

Cigarette smoking is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice D rationale

Cocaine use is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Use of cocaine during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.