A nurse is assessing a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and reports sudden, severe abdominal pain with moderate vaginal bleeding and persistent uterine contractions.
The client's blood pressure is 88/50 mm Hg, and her abdomen is rigid.
The nurse should identify these findings as indicating which of the following complications?
Uterine rupture.
Placental abruption.
Placenta previa.
Amniotic fluid embolus.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Uterine rupture typically presents with intense, constant abdominal pain and signs of shock. However, the absence of visible bleeding in the abdominal cavity makes this choice less likely in this case.
Choice B rationale:
Placental abruption involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. The sudden, severe abdominal pain, moderate vaginal bleeding, persistent uterine contractions, and signs of hypovolemic shock (low blood pressure, rigid abdomen) are indicative of placental abruption. This condition requires immediate medical intervention due to the risk of fetal and maternal compromise.
Choice C rationale:
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening. It typically presents with painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. The severe abdominal pain described in the scenario is inconsistent with placenta previa.
Choice D rationale:
Amniotic fluid embolus is a rare and life-threatening condition in which amniotic fluid enters the maternal bloodstream, causing an allergic reaction. It can lead to sudden cardiovascular collapse. Although it can cause respiratory distress and hypotension, it does not usually present with severe abdominal pain or uterine contractions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- A. This choice is incorrect because the body temperature does not drop 1 degree 1 week after ovulation. The body temperature rises slightly (about 0.4 to 0.8 degrees Fahrenheit) after ovulation and remains elevated until the next menstrual period.
- B. This choice is incorrect because the body temperature should be taken each morning before getting out of bed or doing any activity. Taking the temperature in the evening can result in inaccurate readings due to variations in daily activities, meals, stress, exercise, etc.
- C. This choice is correct because the body temperature might decrease slightly (about 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit) just prior to ovulation due to a surge in estrogen levels. This dip in temperature can indicate that ovulation is about to occur and that the client should avoid unprotected intercourse if she wants to prevent pregnancy.
- D. This choice is incorrect because the body temperature is not at its highest during menstruation. The body temperature drops at the onset of menstruation due to a decline in progesterone levels and marks the beginning of a new cycle.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is B, C, and E.
- A. Weight is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition.
- B. Neuro status is a correct choice because it reflects the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, and cognitive function. Any alteration in neuro status could indicate a serious problem such as infection, stroke, or medication toxicity.
- C. Auditory hallucinations are a correct choice because they are a symptom of psychosis and could indicate a relapse or worsening of the client's mental illness. Auditory hallucinations could also impair the client's ability to cope, communicate, and function effectively.
- D. Speech is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition. Speech could be affected by various factors such as mood, anxiety, or medication side effects.
- E. Restlessness is a correct choice because it is a sign of agitation, anxiety, or discomfort. Restlessness could also indicate an underlying physical or psychological problem such as pain, infection, or psychosis.
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