A nurse is caring for a client following a vaginal delivery of a term fetal demise. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice B rationale:
Uterine tenderness is a common symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal tachycardia is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice D rationale:
Leukorrhea is not associated with abruptio placentae.

The most likely finding the nurse should expect in a client experiencing abruptio placenta during labor is:

b. Uterine tenderness.

Here's why:

• Hypertension (a):While preeclampsia can increase the risk of abruptio placenta,it's not always present,and hypertension wouldn't be the immediate expected finding during the abruption event itself.
• Fetal tachycardia (c):This can occur in early stages of abruption to compensate for decreased oxygen supply,but as the abruption becomes more severe,fetal bradycardia is more likely due to oxygen deprivation.
• Leukorrhea (d):This is a white vaginal discharge and has no connection to abruptio placenta.

Uterine tenderness is a characteristic sign of abruptio placenta due to bleeding behind the placenta and irritation of the uterine muscle. This is often accompanied by:

• Vaginal bleeding (bright red or dark)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Sudden, ongoing uterine tightening or irritability
• Fetal distress (decreased fetal heart rate movements)

Therefore, option b is the most expected finding in this scenario.

Remember: Early recognition and prompt management of abruptio placenta are crucial for optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. If you suspect abruptio placenta, immediate medical attention is essential.

Choice A rationale:
Hypotension is a common adverse effect of epidural analgesia due to the blockage of sympathetic nerve fibers, which can lead to vasodilation and decreased cardiac output.
Choice B rationale:
Polyuria is not typically associated with epidural analgesia. It could be related to other factors such as fluid administration or underlying medical conditions.
Choice C rationale:
A fetal heart rate of 152/min is within the normal range (110-160 beats/min) and is not an adverse effect of epidural analgesia.
Choice D rationale:
A maternal temperature of 37.4° C (99.4° F) is within the normal range (36.1° C to 37.2° C or 97° F to 99° F) and is not an adverse effect of epidural analgesia.