A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and reports sudden, severe lower abdominal pain. The nurse observes a drop in the client's blood pressure and notes cool skin and pallor. The fetal heart rate tracing shows prolonged bradycardia. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?
Amniotic fluid embolism
Umbilical cord prolapse
Uterine rupture
Placenta previa
The Correct Answer is C
Uterine rupture. The sudden, severe lower abdominal pain, drop in blood pressure, and signs of shock such as cool skin and pallor all point to a potential intra-abdominal hemorrhage most likely due to Uterine rupture. Additionally, the prolonged bradycardia on the fetal heart rate tracing indicates that the baby may be experiencing fetal distress due to a compromised blood supply. Amniotic fluid embolism triggers an allergic reaction, causing a sudden onset of respiratory distress, hypotension, and cardiac arrest. Option D, placenta previa, occurs when the placenta implants in the lower uterine segment, partially or completely covering the cervical os. This can lead to painless vaginal bleeding but typically does not present with sudden, severe abdominal pain or signs of shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Lentils. Lentils have the highest fiber content per cup compared to the other options. One cup of cooked lentils provides approximately 15.6 grams of fiber. Oatmeal provides approximately 4 grams of fiber per cup, asparagus provides approximately 3.6 grams of fiber per cup, and cabbage provides approximately 2.6 grams of fiber per cup. Increasing dietary fiber is an effective way to manage constipation during pregnancy, as it can promote bowel regularity and prevent complications such as hemorrhoids. The nurse can provide additional education on other high-fiber food options, the importance of drinking adequate fluids, and the need to increase physical activity to help manage constipation. 
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C, "Increased muscle weakness." The nurse should instruct the client to report increased muscle weakness, as this can indicate toxicity from magnesium sulfate. Increased fetal movement is not an indication of toxicity from magnesium sulfate. Increased respiratory rate is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate and does not require intervention unless it is significantly increased. Increased urinary output is a normal effect of magnesium sulfate and does not require intervention.
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